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The launch of Google Maps in South Africa

Great news for all South Africans is that Google officially launched its Maps service in South Africa.

Google South Africa Country Manager, Stephen Newton, said Google Maps has been enhanced with extra features allowing users to access street map data, pictures, webcam feeds, directions and other information specific to the country.

What is Google Maps?
Google Maps is a free Google service offering powerful, user-friendly mapping technology and local business information. Google Maps forms a critical part of Google's offering with as much of 50% of searches today including geographical information. It is the most popular online mapping service worldwide.

With the recent launch, new detailed maps of many South African cities and towns, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth and East London, are now accessible on Google Maps through any web browser or via Google Maps for mobile on data enabled handsets.

This launch indicates the importance of highlighting South Africa as a travel destination ahead of the 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup. With Streetview also to be launched early in 2010, Google has provided a range of services specifically tailored for international tourists. Tourists planning to visit South Africa and attend the Fifa World Cup, can make use of the local mapping tools to plan trips and find their way around. Local businesses also need to be aware that there is a great opportunity to get your business listed.

• Site owners can use this map technology to enhance their online presence and add functionality to a website
• Google Maps is a search tool for geographical location based searches.
• Point to point navigation, almost as good as GPS system. Kilometers to destination, detailed directions, drive times
• Maps navigation show fastest route by default. Route can be moved by click and drag and new route will be worked out.
• Maps searchable in number of languages and SA map will translate for international users planning trips to SA
• Trip planning made easy, zoom in to see more details on roads and the areas you are going to.
• Google Maps users are able to find businesses (to locate restaurants, bars and most biz services) and check driving directions.
• Users can click more info on a business listing for reviews, service offering, address, contact details, opening hours and more.
• Businesses will be able to add their own business listings for free via Google Maps Local Business Centre.
• Using the Local Business Centre feature, companies can enter information about their business, including their service offering, address, contact details, opening hours and photos.