If you’re an avid fan of Google Maps – especially for the mobile phone – then you’ll be happy to hear about a new beta service Google is testing called “My Location” for Google Maps. With “My Location”, you’ll be able to see your current location on Google Maps using your cell phone whether or not you have a GPS receiver built into your phone. A blue dot on the map will correspond to your current location. How does this work without a GPS receiver you might be wondering? Google takes information broadcast from mobile towers near you to approximate your current location on the map. It’s not as good as GPS but it’s not too shabby too – if you need a rough idea as to where you are. The accuracy can range from 1/4 a mile to three miles but it’s better than nothing (unless of course you really do know where you are).

Worried about privacy? Google claims that the tracking system isn’t set up to collect a user’s phone number or any other personal information that would reveal a person’s identity. You can also turn off the feature at any time by simply clicking on a link in the help menu.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Google Maps, My Location