Google's New Locator Tech: Mobile Maps Are Suddenly Where It's At

Internet search giant Google is testing technology that will find the location of people using its mobile mapping service, even if the phone doesn't have a GPS receiver.

The AP is reporting that the new location-aware mapping will enable people to skip going through the cumbersome task of typing in a starting address on a mobile phone when they go to Google Maps for directions.

The technology, called "My Location," enables users to press zero on a mobile handset equipped with the new software. The user's location pops up as a blue dot on the Google map. Sure, not a big deal - but yet it is. I hate having to enter in information on they tiny keyboard of my cell phone for this kind of stuff.

And what of the business model? Of course, the online ad leader is hoping the technology will enable it to  run display ads from nearby businesses. Which could be useful. You're going to be at an office or event, it's nice to know what restaurants, hang outs or other attractions are nearby.

Still, getting rid of several steps to  using Google Maps shouldn't lead to more steps having to view, and then click through ads. Surely, Google can come up with something better than that.

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Rick Mathieson.com