T-Mobile 3G coverage map hits the web

With the T-Mobile event tomorrow, it is only appropriate that the carrier has now placed their coverage map online so users can see what areas have or will get 3G coverage.

As you probably know already, T-Mobile has launched a huge roll out of 3G network coverage over the next couple of months, bringing the service to major cities all across the country. Now, you can keep up to date with this useful tool and see how your 3G data connection is doing. You can also view how the signal strength is in your area.

Check out the coverage map for yourself and be sure to pop on over to Android Community tomorrow morning. There will be Live Blogging of the T-Mobile event which will officially announce the T-Mobile G1, the first phone to use Google’s Android software.

[via SlashPhone]

Mobile Google Maps getting Street View

An updated version of Google Maps was launched that provides Street View images right on your mobile device. You will now be able to get the same “street-level imagery” that you do on your standard desktop computer on your cell phone.

This is really pretty convenient, because you are given the opportunity to see storefronts and locations. After all, how often have you been 100% certain that a particular shop was an old favorite based on its name and general location, only to find out you’ve never been there before!

Also built into Google Maps for your phone are business reviews and walking directions, which was just released on the desktop version as well. This update should also provide a speedier experience, greater accuracy and more. You can download it now for your BlackBerry or any phone with Java enabled. Google says they’re working to bring this function to other platforms as well. Check out a video of Google Maps mobile with Street View below.



[via Google Mobile Blog]

Nokia Maps 2.0 anything but pedestrian

Hey, go take a walk, why don't ya?

That is, with Nokia Maps 2.0. Nokia announced at GSMA 2008 that its newest version of the mapping and software application is now available in beta form, and it brings a number of enhancements, including more advanced pedestrian navigation. This makes complete sense to us, given that mobile phones and smartphones make for better handheld navigators than in-car GPS. Of course, we realise not everyone lives in a place where you can walk to your destination, but for those who do, the new features of Nokia Maps 2.0 are pretty awesome.

First, there's the Walk function that gives you visual turn-by-turn directions and also provides information about surrounding streets and buildings. In newer handsets like the just-announced Nokia 6120 Navigator, you'll also get a built-in compass. And we're not talking about a simple digital compass. The map will move with every direction for more accurate orientation. Nokia Maps 2.0 also adds the option to purchase multimedia city guides that give you photos, videos, and audio streams of your destination. And of course, it will continue to offer in-car guidance.

Nokia Maps 2.0 is available for selected devices from the Nokia Beta Labs Web site, and the company hopes to bring the application to the mass market along with a Series 40 version during the first half of the year.

Source: CNet