When will Google Maps be released for iPad?

Alongside the announcement that a new Google Maps app is rolling out to Android users this week, Google on Wednesday revealed that it would be bringing the revamped app to iPhone and iPad "soon."

Above: Google Maps' dedicated tablet app is rolling out to Android devices this week, and is coming to iPad "soon."

After being booted out of iOS with the launch of Apple's widely criticised Maps in iOS 6 in September, Google released its Google Maps app for iPhone in December, which was downloaded more than 10 million times in 48 hours. Since then, iPad users have been wondering when they'll be able to get their hands on a dedicated Google Maps app, and yesterday's announcement reveals that an iPad version of Google Maps will be making its way into the iOS App Store "soon."?

"The new Google Maps for mobile builds on the design we released for iPhone last December and improves on it with a few useful search and navigation features," said Google. "And it's the first dedicated app for Android tablets and iPads."

Google highlighted several key features of the revamped app in its announcement.

Explore will allow users to find out about new places without needing to type. "Simply tap the search box and you'll see cards showing great places to eat, drink, sleep and shop," Google explains.

Navigation has been improved with new incident details to enable users to avoid traffic, and alerts to provide better, faster routes to desired destinations.

Due to the retirement of Latitude and check-ins in the new Google Maps app, Google has added location sharing and check-ins to Google+.

It is currently unclear exactly when the new Google Maps will be coming to iOS, but when it does, users will need to be running iOS 6 or higher in order to use its features.? Google also states that some of the features won't be available in all countries, so it's not yet clear which will be available in the UK.

See also:

Google Maps for iPhone review

Google Maps vs Apple Maps turn-by-turn Sat-Nav test

Google Maps sparks a 29% rise in iOS 6 adoption

Source: http://rss.feedsportal.com/c/570/f/7332/s/2e8491a7/l/0L0Smacworld0O0Cipad0Eiphone0Cnews0Cindex0Bcfm0Dnewsid0F34571550Golo0Frss/story01.htm

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