How to: Get started with BlackBerry maps

BlackBerry Maps is designed to let you receive route directions and view interactive maps from the palm of your hand.

As an added bonus, a local search feature will allow you locate an establishment such as a business or restaurant simply by entering a keyword or address. Wherever you are, BlackBerry Maps will provide you with a visual route and step-by-step directions to help you get from A to B.

Step 1: Getting started
Although not essential, GPS is recommended if you want to keep a moving record of your route and be redirected should you take a wrong turn or miss a direction. GPS will also let you make the most of the mapping application’s features. A growing number of BlackBerry smartphones feature built-in GPS capabilities, but you can also enable GPS via a Bluetooth receiver.

Step 2: Bluetooth GPS
If you wish to use a Bluetooth GPS device, set it to Discoverable. Now you need to enable Bluetooth on your BlackBerry and pair the device with your handset.

Step 3: Configure GPS
Go to the Applications screen and then click the Maps icon. Before you go any further, though, click the Menu key and scroll down to the Options command. Check that your GPS source is configured under GPS Settings.

Step 4: Map basics
Click the Back button to return to the mapping application’s interactive interface. Use your trackball to pan a map up or down. To pan left, hold the ALT key and roll the trackball up. To pan right, hold the ALT key and roll the trackball down. If you want to use the zoom feature, click the trackball and roll it up to zoom in or down to zoom out.

Step 5: Route planning
Now that you have a basic understanding of the application, it’s time to try planning a route. Click the Menu key and select Start GPS Navigation. Click New Directions and select a start location. You can choose to use your current location or to enter a new address manually. Now just click the trackball and then enter your final destination.

Step 6: Get directions
Maps will now generate route directions. At the top of the screen you will see the distance between the two locations and the estimated time of the journey. Scroll down and you will see precise instructions that will guide you along your route.

Step 7: More detail
If you wish to see one of the directions in more detail, highlight it and click the Menu key. You can now choose to see a map which will put the selected instruction into context. Click the Back button to return to the basic directions.

Step 8: Track your movement
As long as you activate the Start GPS Navigation command, your movements will be tracked and as the map shifts, your position remains centred on the screen. To stop tracking your movement at any time, simply bring up the menu and click Stop GPS Navigation.

Step 9: Send location
BlackBerry Maps is a fairly basic mapping application, but it does have some very handy features. For example, you can let a friend or colleague know your exact location by pressing the Menu key and selecting Send Location. You can choose to send the information by email, PIN or SMS.

Step 10: Local Search
Follow the route directions and Maps will guide you to your destination. When you arrive, why not seek out a restaurant? The Local Search feature helps you find a business, restaurant and other establishments within a 30km radius. Fancy a pizza? Click the Menu key, select Local Search and type ‘pizza’. Choose a nearby place and bring up the menu. You can now choose to view the business on a map or call and book a table.

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