Google has released the latest version (6.5) of its Google Maps for Android navigation software, which offers a new look for Android 4.0+ (Ice Cream Sandwich) powered mobile devices.

The navigation home-screen for devices running Android 4.0 and up has been redesigned, to make it easier for users to enter a new destination or select from recent and favourite locations by swiping either left or right.

Google has also made higher resolution map tiles available to smartphones with high pixel density displays, including the Galaxy Nexus, Galaxy S II and Motorola RAZR. According to the search giant, this will result in a crisper, less cluttered map that is much easier to read.

Users will be able to prioritise their prefered transit mode, such as taking the bus or train. They can then also choose a route option for instance, if they want to take the recommended route or one with the least amount of walking in between the different stations on route. There are currently transit directions and schedules available for 475 cities around the world, which includes Cape Town, Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Additionally, Google stated that navigation via Google Maps for Android has provided 50 billion kilometers of turn-by-turn directions thus far, which is equal to 130 000 trips to the moon, 334 trips to the sun, or ten visits to Neptune.  

Users can download the update to Google Maps 6.5 for Android from the Google Play Store.