Google releases Walking Navigation Beta and Street View on Google Maps

With the release of Google Maps 4.5 for Android, users can now use the Walking Navigation beta to get the most direct walking directions between two points. Not only will the directions be more "foot-friendly", but will also navigate you over pedestrian pathways like walking bridges. And Google has also made some changes to make Walking Navigation useful. When you need to make a turn, your phone will vibrate. You can even turn off the voice directions so as not to disturb the locals while you walk amongst them. As you turn the phone, the map will rotate and the satellite view is used by default. To use the walking beta, after you select Navigate, press on the Walking option on the screen.

If you want to get a sneak peek at where you are heading, you can open the new Street View on Google Maps. Just like on your PC, drag Pegman from the corner to the spot on the map where you want to go. To add Street View to your mobile bag of tricks, head over to Android Market and install "Street View on Google Maps".

Google Maps now has a new search bar at the top of the screen. Tapping it allows you to find places or find yourself on the map using My Location. Other new features give you the ability to filter search results by ratings or distance, check out prices where dollar signs are located, and see cross streets for certain locations. With this update for Google Maps, you really are letting your fingers do the walking.

source: Google