Google Maps Adds Distance Measuring Feature

Google Maps just released a small, useful update for its Maps desktop product. On the web, you can now right-click on any map and select “Measure Distance” to start charting a path and adding points, with Google offering up distances for each of the segments you create. It’s a handy way to find out approximately how far you’ll be travelling for a backwoods hike or bike ride, and a great way to draw stupid things with simple vectors 🙂 The feature had previously been available under the experimental Google Labs options but is now available as part of the main service. Although generally useful for anyone planning a roadtrip, it also means you can now use Google Maps to plan a new morning run or cycle ride by distance, or draw a little man over a park, should you wish. [via techcrunch]