Google continues to update its Maps app for mobile. The app has gone beyond the basic local search and navigation service and become a sophisticated local discovery tool with multiple content types and improved functionality.
Recently, Google has made Maps more “actionable” with OpenTable reservations, Uber pickup and price estimation built into the app. For the Uber functions to work, users need to install the Uber app.
The overall appearance of Google Maps app (for both Android and iOS) has been redesigned to be consistent with the new look of Android 5.0 (Lollipop) and Material Design. It has richer visual environment and provides more opportunities for engagement and content discovery.
But then, Google Maps competes with “local search service” apps such as Yelp, Foursquare, YP and others. It also competes with TripAdvisor in travel, as well as countless other vertical startups.
Google Now and the entire Google-Android user experience are part of the holistic approach Google is taking to mobile, location and travel. In fact, it has advantages over other stand-alone products such a Foursquare or Yelp or Apple Maps. However, the app hasn’t yet become a true replacement for popular apps such as Yelp or TripAdvisor.
Meanwhile, Facebook is going to release another stand-alone app code named “Places”.