Google Maps Navigation for Android Now Routes Around Traffic

Google is trying to alleviate one of life's major frustrations for drivers with its latest update to the Google Maps Navigation software for Android OS -- Google's GPS service will now plan routes that avoid traffic, and re-route if a traffic problem emerges.

While Google Maps Navigation would attempt to pick the fastest route prior to this update, there was the possibility that the unpredictability of traffic could make what would generally be the fastest route into a slow-moving quagmire.

Google Maps Navigation software now considers historical and current traffic conditions, factoring both into its calculations when planning its routes. This update will happen automatically for Android-users who have the Navigation app, or access Navigation through Google Maps.

Like previous versions of this app, the new one offers automatic synchronization with the Web version, offline caching, 3D mode, and much more.

Availability
The latest version of Google Maps is available now in the on-device Android Store. It is free to download and use, though a wireless data plan is necessary to use it.

Real-time traffic data in conjunction with Navigation is currently only available in North America and Europe.

Devices must have Android OS 1.6 or higher to run this free Navigation software.

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