We just received these images from a reader out in Virginia, who spotted this Google Maps car parked on the side of the road after what appears to be a small traffic collision. Interestingly enough, this isn’t the first time we’ve seen a Google Maps car trade paint with someone else on the road. From what we can see, this was rather minor in comparison, but we hope everyone is okay.

Some major app players have received updates in the past 24 hours including Chrome for Android, Google Maps, Yelp, Dropbox, and everybody’s all-time favorite, Instagram. While Chrome and Google Maps were more bug fixing and stability tweaks, Yelp, Instagram, and Dropbox received a couple of new features. Yelp has added support for the country of Finland, not really beneficial for us over here, but cool nonetheless.

Instagram has added better search functionality for users, while Dropbox has added video streaming for Ice Cream Sandwich users and the ability to upload files of any size. Righteous. If you haven’t updated your apps yet, now would be the time to do so.

Play Links: Yelp | Google Maps | Google Chrome | Dropbox | Instagram

During today’s Google presentation on the Next Dimension of Maps, the company unveiled the next step for Google Earth – complete 3D renderings across the globe. Of course, such things do take time and Google will take baby steps in making this feature a true reality. As we saw in the presentation, the entire area of San Francisco has been mapped in complete 3D scale and it looks phenomenal. No exact time was given on when regular users will see the introduction, so we’ll keep our eyes open. 

During today’s Google Maps event, the Maps team announced that “offline” functionality is here to stay and will be leaving its beta or Labs world behind. A similar feature was introduced back in July of last year, however, that involved caching of areas while this new offline mode allows users to download full sections of maps for later use.

We were not given a release date, and instead were left with “soon.” For now, if you would like to take Maps offline, head into Google Maps>Settings>Labs and check the box for “Pre-cache map area.” Then from the map view, long press in the middle, tap on the bubble of the location it finds, and then choose “Pre-cache map area.” You will then download the area of the map that you have in view. 

Google is live streaming their “Next Dimension of Google Maps” event that is happening this morning in San Francisco. Feel free to tune in and see what is in store. Any guesses on what “next dimension” means? Google doesn’t strike me as a company that would buy into 3D tech, but you never know.

Live Stream

Google pinged us this morning to let us know about a Google Maps press event that they are hosting next Wednesday. As you can see from the invite, they plan to show us the “Next Dimension” of Maps, but it’s anyone’s guess as to exactly what that means. Further details in the invite mention their “newest technology” and a sneak peak at features that will help people continue to get where they are going, both “physically and virtually”:

…give you a behind-the-scenes look at Google Maps and share our vision. We’ll also demo some of the newest technology and provide a sneak peek at upcoming features that will help people get where they want to go – both physically and virtually.

The timing of this couldn’t be better as Apple is holding their developer conference, WWDC, the following week. Rumors have pegged Apple as having created their own map offering to compete with Google’s and that it would be unveiled during this conference.

Any guesses on what could be new in Maps?

This morning, the Google+ team announced that they were including a new “Local” tab to help you discover hot spots around you or to read reviews of places that your friends had recently been. They mentioned Android integration in their announcement which appears to have come moments ago via a Google Maps update. If you cruise into the Play store, you should have the update available. After updating, you will find a new “Local” choice in the main menu drop down that takes you to a landing page to decide what it is you feel like searching for. From there you can check out local businesses, read reviews, and of course, see Zagat scores. 

The Google+ team introduced a Local tab to the ever-growing social service this morning, bringing you search results for all of your soon-to-be-favorite hangouts. Using Zagat scores, you can discover new places around you or find the places that your friends have recently visited and reviewed.

Android integration is supposed to be rolling out as well, however, we are not seeing it in our app just yet. The browser G+ Local page is live though, and can be visited here.

Another solid addition to Google+, I’d say. Now, to find a way to get friends to switch over to it.

Via:  Google Blog