07 September 2008 Google Maps(for a time named Google Local) is
a free web mapping service application and technology provided
by Google that powers many map-based services including the
Google Maps website, Google Ride Finder and embedded maps on
third-party websites via the Google Maps API. It offers street
maps, a route planner, and an urban business locator for
numerous countries around the world. A related product is Google
Earth, a standalone program for Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X and
Linux which offers enhanced globe-viewing features. Google Maps
features a map that can be navigated by dragging the mouse, or
using the mouse wheel to zoom in (mouse wheel up) or out (mouse
wheel down) to show detailed street information. Users may enter
an address, intersection or general area to quickly find it on
the map. Search results can be restricted to a certain area,
thanks to Google Local. For example, someone can enter a query
such as "Waffles in Ottawa" to find restaurants serving waffles
near the city. This