14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft launched the first Windows 10 for Phones Technical Preview back in February, but that build was only compatible with several Lumia smartphones.
This month however, Microsoft released a new build that expands support to many more Lumia devices. Along with this build, a slightly improved version of Maps application has been included, which brings a few more features into the mix.
But Microsoft has bigger plans for its maps services, which will be fully released along with Windows 10 for Phones later this summer.
According to the Redmond-based company, “based on the new Windows Universal app platform, Maps delivers a single and consistent mapping experience across all your Windows devices.
Whether you're on your PC in the office, or using your Windows phone on the go, Maps offers you features and tools you need to explore and navigate the world.”
Voice guided navigation and Bing to search for places
More importantly, Microsoft confirmed that its Maps application implemented in Windows 10 for phones will offer the best maps and voice guided navigation experiences from both Bing Maps and HERE maps.
This is the first time when both services are integrates, so Windows Phone users should be provided with a much better navigation experience.
The new Maps app for Windows 10 for Phones have been fully optimized for touch gestures on phones or other touch-screen devices.
For example, users will be able to pinch to zoom in or out, or use two fingers to rotate and tap on a label to obtain more info about the business or landmark.
Maps for Windows 10 for Phones will also brings rich local search data through Bing. Simply tap the Search box in order to get a list of the most popular search categories.
Once you found the place you want to go, you will receive detailed turn-by-turn directions to help you navigate to that address.
Users can customize routes to meet their preferences
Microsoft claims the application is capable of finding the best route based on current traffic conditions, as well as offer additional options to customize the route to user's preferences.
When using GPS-enabled smartphones, users will also receive voice guided driving directions thanks to the integration with HERE maps.
There are a lot more features included in the new Maps application for Windows 10 for Phones, so make sure you check Microsoft's blog post for additional info.
