Android App Review: Google Latitude

Google Latitude, a free application for Android and iPhone phones, is an ideal travel application suitable for anyone who likes to track locations. One of the best features I like about this application is a user can add anyone in their contact list to be friends on Latitude. This enables the Android or iPhone user to follow their contacts whenever they are signed into Google Latitude. In addition, Google Latitude displays how close each contact is to the user measuring distance in meters. It also updates the time and how recent the contact may have been there. Similarly, Android and iPhone users which have Google+ are able to sign into their location to let others know where they may be.

Furthermore, those who need driving directions don’t have to look further than Google Latitude. Any user of Google Latitude has to display the map and click on directions to pull up this unique feature. All that is required is the departure and arrival addresses. The Android or iPhone user will notice in Google Latitude there is one long line with a series of dots. When zoomed in, these dots give the directions to the destination. For instance, they may indicate “Turn right onto W. 147th St.” If the Android or iPhone user wants the option to read the directions on their phone, they have the ability to click the button to the left of the arrows. The map may also indicate additional street names, rivers that may be close by and landmarks on the way to the destination. It may also indicate any toll rolls the driver may encounter.

Another great feature is that Google Latitude also gives users the option to search for directions by car, bus, bike or walking. There is a blue up arrow under the car within Google Latitude which prompts the GPS (global positioning systems) on the map through the satellite program. However, Google Latitude urges drivers not to operate this while they are driving. It says in the warning box before you turn on GPS to “keep your eyes on the road!” One nice feature about viewing it with the GPS, however, is that Google Latitude identifies your route in blue so it’s easily noticed. This feature may, indeed, help keep your eyes on the road.

In addition, the layer button in the middle of the top row is a useful feature to the application. For instance, one of the items it lets the user see is traffic. It gives the Android user the ability to see where the heavy traffic is (usually red) and where it is clear or empty roads and highways (usually green.) Another feature of this button is the ability to see the map via satellite. This feature would be useful if you’re trying to find an exact location on the map and it uses satellite images Google has taken throughout different communities.

Google Latitude also includes a compass within the application. The compass moves by the phone rotation and could be a useful feature. I have never used this feature of Google Latitude, but it seems as if it would accompany well with the GPS. Similarly, the compass feature defines the highways much better than any other feature of the application. The designated route is still highlighted in blue, while the departure location is accompanied by a green arrow.

Finally, there really is only one thing that bothers me about this application. While It’s easy to use and it’s helpful, I do like it when an Android or iPhone user has the ability to track their friends location. However, it does not always update the exact location and sometimes the distance is not always accurate. It’s not a big dilemma, but it may be a little annoying at times. It’s a great application for those who travel on business or pleasure, and you can’t beat the price for a peace of mind.