Google Maps launched in South Africa yesterday on its own domain (http://maps.google.co.za) and boasts enhanced features.  The new version of Google Maps SA comprises detailed maps of cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Port Elizabeth and East London and is available through any web browser or on your mobile phone through Google’s mobile application.

The new version of Google Maps SA brings a number of marketing opportunities to businesses. Businesses can list details like their physical address, opening hours, phone numbers, logos and even a live web cam on Google Maps Local Business Centre  free of charge.  Once this data is updated, potential customers searching for the business will receive driving directions to the business’ location and there is also an option to print the directions.  New overlay functions include a photo, wiki and webcam overlay.  The webcam overlay allows users to view a live feed of an area and will come in handy to avoid traffic jams!

In an attempt to enrich users’ map viewing experience, the My Maps feature will allow users to highlight their favourite locations and share them with others.  Stephen Newton, Country Manager for Google SA said:  ”Our goal with Maps is to make information with a geographical dimension available to everyone and to allow users to update the maps and develop on top of them.”

Kenya was the first African country to receive their own Google Maps Internet domain and South African second.  In total there are about 30 countries globally with their own Google Maps domain.  In preparation for 2010 Google Maps has committed to have the Street View function operational in time for the FIFA World Cup.  At present five South African cities are being photographed using special cameras mounted on Toyota Prius vehicles and a few of them have been spotted by Twitter users in Cape Town.  Other services aimed at international tourists include walking directions and transport data which will help visitors plan their holiday.