Who does not use Google Maps? It’s everywhere. My iPhone. My iPad. Android phones. And, for Mac and PC users, all it takes is a browser window pointed at Google Maps and you get a map of anywhere on the planet (mostly).
What’s not to like about a free mapping service with directions?
Mac users, rejoice. There’s an app that does Google Maps and it does it better than Maps in a browser window.
eMaps is a free Mac app that brings Google Maps to the confines of an app window, with easier access to tools, directions, and a toolbar loaded up with more armament than NCC-1701.
What I’ve always liked about using Google Maps is the ability to manipulate the functions. Change map types, check street view, drop in markers and directions, zoom here and there.
That works OK in a browser window but even better in eMaps. Look at the tools in the Toolbar.
The zoom controls work much better than in the browser. And adding locations into the Place drop down menu makes moving around the map much easier and faster.
Using the customizable Toolbar is a delicious treat. Search for locations right from the Toolbar’s search field, and get a pop up with plenty of options.
Yes, you can get directions, just as you can within a browser window. You can also check traffic, check out Street View images, and… drum roll, please… draw shapes and lines over the maps.
All this goodness is free, of course, but there’s a few things I would like to see. A button for the current location would be great (like on iPhone or iPad). Then, you’d be able to map directions without having to fill in a current location.