Although Google Maps is still dominating, but other services
don't give up so easily, including Bing Maps. Recently Microsoft introduces a
new version of Bing Maps that has been redesigned by considering users inputs.
Indeed the new version of Bing Maps is still in the preview
stage, but we can already see that Microsoft is really serious in listening to
the users’ feedbacks. In addition to the visual overhaul, Bing Maps Preview
also presents a number of small details that will enhance the overall
experience of users.
In visual term, Bing Maps Preview will now display the
search result in the form of "card" on the left side. This card
doesn't only display one search result, but can be several at once; complete
with relevant information, such as address, phone number and visitor reviews.
The interface of Bing Maps Preview is claimed more intuitive
and easy to navigate on the touch screen. On the right side, there is a button
to switch the display modes between Aerial and Road. When accessing the
computer browser, the right-click of the mouse will display a variety of
options such as "save as favorite", "add to route" and
“view streetside“.
In presenting directions, Bing Maps Preview will give you an
option where you can enter the departure time. From there, by utilizing Predictive
function, Bing Maps Preview will provide recommendations about the ideal travel
route, plus the estimated journey time.
When you are traveling, Bing Maps Preview can now display
information about various locations on your route. This feature is called
"Along the Route", and is expected to help you to find specific
locations you want to visit while you are heading to the destination place.
Streetside feature in Bing Maps Preview is now displayed in
the form of split screen. Thus, you can still see the desired location on the
map, and below it you can observe a 360 degree picture to see the road
condition at that location.
Personalization is another aspect which also becomes the
focus of Microsoft in redesigning the Bing Maps. Users can now store favorite locations
in My Places. Interestingly, My Places will be synchronized with Cortana and
Windows Maps application. Thus, you can instruct Cortana to display direction
to a place that has been stored in My Places.
Bing Maps Preview also carries sharing function. You can
share the location information or traveling route via email, the recipient can
directly monitor it via computer or mobile device.
For now Bing Maps Preview is only available in some
countries, you can visit bing.com/mapspreview to register and get access to
this service.