Google releases a new Google Maps API for Developers
Google have just announced that they will provide a new Google Maps API for Developers.
The update to the Google Maps API gives developers a better, more comprehensive set of tools to integrate maps into apps.
It will be easier than ever to insert vector-based maps into applications, according to Google.
Launching today as part of Google Play services v2.0, this is Google’s way of allowing for more simple and agile access to Google products within Android apps.
The API is available as part of Google Play services supporting devices from Froyo onwards (API level 8+).
The new API uses vector-based maps that support 2D and 3D views, and allow users to tilt and rotate the map with simple gestures. Along with the layers you’ve come to know from Google Maps such as satellite, hybrid, terrain and traffic, the new API lets you include indoor maps for many major airports and shopping centres in your app.
One of most common feature requests is support for Map Fragments. With this new API, adding a map to your Activity is as simple as:
<fragment android:id="@+id/map" android:layout_width="match_parent" android:layout_height="match_parent" class="com.google.android.gms.maps.MapFragment" />
