Google Maps BlackBerry app adds Biking Directions, Sharing, and more

After adding biking directions and sharing for Android, Google has announced that Google Maps 4.2 for BlackBerry can also let you get biking directions, quickly see helpful info when searching, and share places with friends.

When getting directions in Google Maps, just choose to travel by bicycle to get an optimal bicycling route in the U.S. If you’re in the mood for a more scenic ride, you’ll also see the Bicycling layer on the map which shows dedicated bike-only trails (dark green), roads with bike lanes (light green), or roads that are good for biking but lack a dedicated lane (dashed green). You can always turn on this layer from the Layers menu to devise your own route.

A new “share this place” option lets you send anyone place info, such as its address or phone number, by email or text message. In addition to specific places like a restaurant, you can also share any location you select on the map -- including a snapshot of where you are at the moment -- to help folks meet you outside or right where you’re standing.

You can enjoy the service by going to m.google.com/maps in your BlackBerry's browser and install version 4.2. Google also fixed some issues with permissions and BlackBerry Enterprise Server installation on some 5.0 devices.