Microsoft MapPoint, Streets & Maps 2009 Editions Out Soon: All New Interface, Chalk Full Of New Features

by Justin

Fans of Microsoft’s MapPoint and Streets & Maps mapping tools will be happy to know 2009 versions with all sorts of new features will be available this fall. MapPoint, a desktop business mapping tool, is set for release September 1, 2008. Streets & Maps, a desktop trip-planning tool and subset of MapPoint geared toward the average Joe will hit shelves sometime in early October. Both 2009 versions feature new interfaces and several new features and will target the North American and European markets.

Here’s a full list of new features via Chris Pendleton, Microsoft’s Virtual Earth Tech Evangelist:

Improved Live Search integration
- Over 1.5 million POI embedded in the products
- Single search box
- Enhanced POI result set with links to Live Maps yellow page and information details send to mobile integration
Send to Mobile
- SMS messaging via Outlook
- Location information sent directly to your mobile device
- Link to Live Mobile
Updated/Improved user interface
- Updated icons throughout the site
- Toolbar redesign
- Pane consistency
MapPoint Office 12 compatibility
- Ability to upload Office 2007 Word and Excel file formats
Entertainment Online
- FREE 14 day trial membership for savings in restaurants, hotels, special events, and more
- Coupons available in U.S. and Canada
- Search for coupons by area and category
- Link to Entertainment Online site
Additional improvements
- Updated map data and information on more than 1.5 million locations
- New, sleek GPS device (puck) for MapPoint North America
- Streamlined product installation and activation
- Configurable spoken street names and automatic re-routing
- 2.5D improvements (zoom to turn, indicator icon, etc)
- Updated Live Search for Windows Mobile install package included on the DVD