Earlier today, Google released the latest version of their Google Maps application for mobile phones, including the BlackBerry. This update includes one really great new feature that us Verizon BlackBerry Pearl users will find especially useful. Because the GPS on our handsets is locked-down to only work with the carrier’s VZ Navigator subscription software, Google Maps hasn’t been able to automatically pick-up on your current location. The version released today offers a “good enough” alternative to the pinpoint precision offered by GPS: location approximation via cell tower triangulation.
When I tried this earlier, the application showed by location about one mile to the east of where I work. Not super accurate, but you know what? It sure beats paying $10 per month for VZ Navigator.
Here’s a little video Google put together that explains how this technology works: