Google API Developers Beware
Google just announced the launch of their MyMaps service as an adjunct tab perfectly integrated into their GoogleMap application. It's easy to set up a personalized map - for example, if you search for restaurants in your neighborhood. Google identifies them with placemarks... click on the placemark of a favorite and "add it to MyMaps". Soon you'll have a map of personalized locations you can share publicly or privately.
The obvious danger for mashup developers doing neat things with Google Map APIs is the risk that Google will find the best apps and build it themselves. With MyMaps, two mapping mashups Platial and Plazes become casualties among others.(Programmable Web states Google Map's API runs 50% of total mashups).
Neat service from Google. I've been waiting for something like this for my personal use. Makes a lot of sense. Next step is to share it to my friends or let them see my map. Google is pushing hard into personalization (at odds with Yahoo). Imagine in 2 years what Google will know about your preferences. Search + Email + HomePage + Interested Locations...
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It was simply a matter of time, really. I do feel sorry for all the small start-ups that got built on the Google Maps API. They did all the scouting work for Google, to find out what was possible, popular, and ultimately profitable...and then Google comes in and stomps all over them. Ouch.
Key missing feature from this at least this version is the ability to mass import points of interest. Until then, I'll be sticking with ZeeSource maps.
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