Recon Street Navigator, Google vs. Microsoft

Given the competitive nature of the consumer internet mapping space, it is no surprise that someone would come out with a similar product to the Microsoft Live search we reviewed here recently.What is surprising is how Google responded with its own product so quickly. The Google Maps for Mobile application was announced in early February.

Since both products provide almost identical interfaces, the main differentiating features are map quality and usability. After starting the application, Google shows you a map instead of a search screen as Microsoft does.

Entering a search is very text oriented on Google Maps. You enter the type of search you want (i.e. Hardware stores), then the city and state. Live Search Mobile lets you choose from a series of lists – something that is much easier to do if you are in a car.

The results look similar in both programs, except that Google presents maps that are somehow cleaner and easier on the eyes. In addition, the Google Maps traffic mapping is much easier to see because both sides of traffic are clearly drawn. The color indicates speed: Green (over fifty mph), Yellow (between 26 and 50 mph), Red (less than 25 mph).



The directions feature operates very similarly in both programs, except that Google Maps shows each step on the map, not on a list. A GPS will center the map based on your location.



The best feature on Google Maps, and the one that sold me on the program, was the map quality. While Windows Live showed black and white aerial photos of many areas, Google Maps seems to have many more updated color maps – even in rural areas. For example, our small city of Corvallis, Oregon is completely in color on Google Maps. Here is a comparison of the Trimble building on both services (Oops, the Windows Live map is so old that our building isn’t even on it! We built it almost 10 years ago).


So, now you have a choice between two very similar applications for your Recon or Ranger. Since they are both free, try them both out before deciding. You will need to attach a GPS (Bluetooth, or Holux CompactFlash card) and a GPRS data connection (wired or Bluetooth to a cell phone) to your device before hitting the road.

Visit http://www.google.com/gmm to download Google maps and http://wls.live.com for the Microsoft application and let us know what you think. Just remember, with a GPS and maps like these, you won’t be able to use getting lost as an excuse anymore.