Long time readers know I am a fan of Google Maps but think Google Local has a bit of work to do.
Now the two have been mashed up by Google.
From the release:
Google Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) today
announced the official launch of Google Local, merging the technologies
behind Google Local and Google Maps. No longer in beta in the U.S. and
Canada, users can visit http://local.google.com to find local search
and mapping information in one place.
“With today’s launch of Google Local, users will be able to go to one
location to find all the local and mapping information they need,” said
Marissa Mayer, director, Consumer Web Products, Google Inc. “Whether
it’s directions to the nearest pharmacy or reviews of nearby dim sum
restaurants, we will continue to develop innovative technologies that
enrich our users’ lives.”
As far as I can tell there have not been any improvements in Local, but that is coming, the release says. My suggestion remains: harness user feedback like Yahoo has….