Google's HK map adds fastest-route feature
New features on Google's map of Hong Kong can show you the fastest way to reach a destination in the city and let you share your favourite sites with friends.
The new features, being launched today on Google Maps, include a link to the Transport Department's website.
That gives users access to real-time traffic information, showing them the fastest way to reach a destination in the city.
Chien Leefeng, the engineering director of the research and development centre for Google Taiwan and Hong Kong, said users could check the distance and the fastest routes between two points in the city by simply clicking a few icons.
The map also provides a new search platform that lets users upload their own personal maps on Google.
Users can mark their personal maps with special locations, such as favourite restaurants, and share them with others, Mr Chien said.
'An electronic map is usually a closed platform. But the Google map is an open one, which allows everybody to upload photos or videos on our map if they like.'
Companies can add their business listings.
The map is also linked with HKEdCity.net, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Trade Development Council, OpenRice.com and an entertainment site, giving internet surfers easy access to information about restaurants, schools and tourism spots.
The general manager for Google in Hong Kong, Preston Lau, said Google's Hong Kong map was the only one of its kind that is bilingual - a feature designed specially for the city.
He said Google would continue to do more localised projects in the city.
