Google released version 2.2.2 of their Maps program yesterday and several users are reporting that this version adds voice recognition for the Blackberry Curve. Previously voice search was limited to users of the Pearl (8110, 8120, 8130). Once you install Google Maps 2.2.2 to your Blackberry Curve (use the over the air install link below), use the left convenience key to activate voice search. Maps recognizes your voice queries and converts them to search terms. The service is similar to Yahoo’s OneSearch which I created this video review for back in April 2008.

OTA Download - Google Maps v2.2.2
Google Maps for your Blackberry Phone - overview

There’s been a lot of mail going back and forth between the Gear Diary Team regarding a couple of recent iPhone posts.  There are some important points that I want to make certain everyone hears, before they go off and spend money on a new iPhone 3G. That money may not get you as much as you think it might.

According to fellow Team Members Wayne Schulz and Kerry Woo, the lines for the new iPhone 3G are already forming at New York’s flagship 5th Avenue Apple Store.  You can see the post on that, here - Let Freedom Ring (iPhone 3G Style).

I’ve been looking at AT&T’s 3G network lately and wondering why we’re “knee deep in the hoopla.”  Apparently my post on AT&T/iPhone US 3G Coverage caused quite the stir over the weekend. It’s gotten some people thinking, but I don’t think that everyone has quite connected ALL of the dots.  The economy sucks right now folks, and before we go off stimulating other people’s wallets, I wanted to make certain that everyone had as much information as possible. I’m specifically speaking to people who already own iPhones.  Everyone else should listen, especially those non-iPhone users (whether AT&T customers or not) who don’t live in a 3G coverage area.

Continue Reading

An interesting feature has been added to Google Maps that allows for predicting traffic flow at a future date and time. While this is marginally useful for high density areas like Los Angeles and Washington DC, where traffic always seems bad, I could see benefits if Google provided point to point routing based on expected traffic flow during your estimated departure day and time.

Via: Google Operating System
Link: Google Maps