Google Maps hybrid map seems more complete
A short while back, I compared MSN Virtual Earth and Google Maps, one of the things I noted was that the hybrid feature of MSN’s map was somewhat more complete, however I found a few errors. (The hybrid feature has a satellite image with road names and outlines superimposed over top.) I just noticed that the area I had looked at for comparison has improved on the Google Maps site, there is now more detail available. In fact, it’s complete in comparison to the standard map feature of the site.
Additionally, I don’t see some of the errors I saw in the MSN rendering of the map. (One crossroads in reality, looks as a crossroads at Google and doesn’t on the MSN rendering.) The other thing I’ve found is that it’s easy to search for addresses on Google maps, but I can’t seem to do that currently at MSN. Also, MSN appears to be zooming to your guessed location (by IP address.) Unless it’s keeping a tracking cookie for returning visitors.
The MSN map has a bit wider error now than when I last saw it. The most maddening part from my point of view is the use of State Road numbers (SR-1003) instead of names Reems Creek Rd. for instance. I don’t know many people that think of the local roads as “State Road-2004” then turn right on “State Road 1756”. If you were to give directions like that you’d be looked at as if you’d grown three extra heads.
Anyway, just thought I’d note the improvements at Google Maps. I’d love to see both mapping services continue to improve (and even more competitors in the “Local Search” waters would be nice as well.)