Google brings local deals to Maps for Android

Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) released an updated version of its Maps for Android application that integrates location-specific daily deals offers.

Click here to watch a video about location-specific deals on Maps for Android.

Maps for Android 6.7 presents both premium and free Google Offers from local restaurants and retailers along with corresponding mapping and navigation data. Deals may be redeemed immediately or saved for later use. Consumers may also opt in to receive in-app notifications when they approach a nearby deal.

Google launched the Offers platform in early 2011 following its failed attempt to acquire social commerce startup Groupon, and it introduced a dedicated Offers app for Android late last year. Google Offers Director of Product Management Eric Rosenblum told All Things D that Offers will continue expanding across Google products and services: "Any Google properties that have a strong location, social or commerce component are strong candidates," he said.

Along with daily deals and coupons, Google is now trialing an Offers loyalty program at select businesses in the Bay Area. The service delivers rewards directly to the user's MasterCard account when they shop at select participating businesses with an enrolled card.

The revamped Maps for Android 6.7 also introduces indoor walking directions for select businesses in the U.S. and Japan as well as 360-degree panoramic images enabling consumers to see inside stores and restaurants.

Google states that millions of users access Maps for Android each day. The service has now provided more than 50 billion kilometers of turn-by-turn directions.

For more:
- read this Google Lat Long Blog entry
- read this All Things D article

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