Google Maps Navigation for Android adds real-time traffic re-routing

Thanks for the heads up on the new update. I just updated to the latest 5.2.0 update edition this weekend so guess I will check out the new release now also.

I really like a lot of the features of Google Maps on my Droid X and especially the sat view when navigating. It isn't going to replace my built in Garmin/Kenwood 7" nav in my car anytime soon but the Android Google Maps has some features I would like to see on my Garmin.

Very cool feature. Now, if they would just allow me to upload the red light POI's to my account to use when navigating with the Incredible it would be perfect.

How long before free Google Nav is superior to the high cost offerings from Garmin and TomTom?

In many ways google maps have been superior to Garmin/TomTom for some time.

Maybe in some ways, but I still like TomTom's IQ routes. I have a hybrid approach now: I use my Android Google Maps for traffic and, amazingly enough, as a map, and I use TT for routing.

That combo came in handy last weekend on a drive from Fort Worth to Oklahoma...there was a BIG traffic jam (over a mile long on the android). I picked what I thought was a good detour, then let TT pick one. It was a different, and I think, better route.
On the way back later that day, we passed the mile long plus traffic jam (for construction) that was still there on the northbound lane. I'm glad we took the detour.

Score another one for IQ routes.

What I hope happens is that the smart phone apps force Garmin/Tom Tom and Navteq to provide more features and better maps.

My fear is that if we loose the stand alone GPS that smartphone makers will become more focused on other smartphone features and ignore the GPS users.