Google Maps For Android Now Offers Indoor Maps Of Malls, Airports, and Retail Stores

We've all been there, visit the local mall and can't seem to find the nearest bathroom. Or traveling out of town and just happen to be in an unknown airport location and need to find your way around but can't seem to find a map. Well Google has come up with a solution.

Today Google introduced Google Maps 6.0 for Android which features indoor maps for establishments like malls, airports, and retail stores. Now, air travelers don't have to bother with information booths and freestanding maps: Via your Android based phone Google Maps can provide directions to your gate, the nearest coffee shop or bathroom.

Detailed floor plans automatically appear when you’re viewing the map and zoomed in on a building where indoor map data is available. User will see the familiar 'blue dot' icon indicating your location within several feet, and when you move up or down a level in a building with multiple floors, the interface will automatically update to display which floor you’re on.

Google has partnered with some of the largest retailers, airports and transit stations in the U.S. and Japan, including:

• Mall of America, IKEA, The Home Depot, select Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, Daimaru, Taskashimaya and Mitsukoshi locations and more. Watch an IKEA demo here.
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Narita International (NRT), among others.
• JR and Tokyu Corporation

For a detailed list of participating locations, please visit the Google help center. To start using Google Maps 6.0 for Android, download the update from Android Market. This update works for Android OS 2.1+ devices everywhere Google Maps is currently available.