Google To Introduce Embeddable Maps

I am sure that most of you are already aware of how easy it is to embed a YouTube video on your blog or website. All you have to do is copy the code displayed in the "embed" box, next to the video. After you paste that into your website, you are good to go.

Now, Google is planning to take that same embedding technology a step further and integrate it with their Google Maps service. Today, according to Dan Warne at APC Magazine, Google "showed a new iteration of Google Maps, launching about a week from now."

Sure, there are other ways that have been around to embed these maps onto websites, but now it is easy enough for everyone, which should increase the use of Google Maps.

Now, anyone who must provide directions or give details on a location can provide a much easier option to visitors. I have come across quite a few websites for small businesses, for which I must get directions to. Many of them provide plain text directions from common locations, while others just provide the physical address and leave the rest up to you.

If those same websites were to use this new, simple feature from Google, they could provide a visual of the area, which would be much more beneficial in finding the location. It would drastically cut down the time it takes to find specific driving directions.

"The embedded maps have the full functionality of Google Maps — they provide satellite view, map view or hybrid view, and users can click and drag the maps around."

It has also been announced that Google will begin to allow users to add their own reviews to any business or location that is listed on Google Maps.

Just watch out to make sure that you are not reading a biased review of either a company insider or a competing business. Mr. Warne mentioned that "there is a challenge around defamation laws. Restaurants have been particualrly litigious. The challenge with reviews in general is it's hard for us to know in a one-off case whether it's a legitimate user or a competing business."

My personal favorite online map solution has been Yahoo! Maps since the release of their newest version. Perhaps these new changes by Google will be enough to change my mind. Especially if every site that I visit already offers an embedded Google Map to get started with.