New mapping and local search services from Google

It's only fair that I post an entry about Google, because I have been posting about Microsoft and Yahoo in the past few days.

Today Google introduced new and improved mapping and local search services for mobile phone users. The new services will take advantage of the Global Positioning System or GPS, which eliminates the need for users to enter their location. Google said it doesn't plan to display ads alongside its mobile maps. These new services require Java-enabled mobile phones, and won't work with Verizon Wireless phones, Blackberry devices or Palm devices. Most subscribers with wireless service from Cingular, T-Mobile and Sprint should be able to use these services.

Some facts about Google:

• Google's market value is over $100 billion in just 7 years


• Ads generated most of Google's revenues, which were about $4.2 billion, during the first 9 months of this year. Profits were about $1.1.


• Next targets for Google: telecommunications, television and publishing.