Google Maps Update 7.0...Fail!

If you haven't noticed yet, Google has gutted it's Google Maps application for the Android with it's 7.0* update.  Google has removed many important and well like features like Layers and Search.  Some have labeled it "...the worst android update ever" and it is currently getting and overflow of 1 star ratings on Google Play. 

Here are a few of the features removed

• Street view preview: Gone.
• Route and alternates: Gone. You have to go back to the directions page in Maps to select a new route (easy enough - just tap the "x"), and those routes' times and traffic details aren't updated based on your present position, as far as we can tell. Hopefully that gets fixed.
• Layers menu: Gone. Replaced by satellite view toggle, and traffic is displayed by default (gas stations, ATMs, restaurants etc. are all gone).
• Other options: Screen dimming is gone (presumably this is now automatic), shortcuts to search, set destination, and help are gone as well.
• On-screen zoom in / out buttons: Gone.
• Search:  While driving, search would allow you to find something while en-route.  Gone.  Critical for this writer.
  

Here is a great article highlighting whats new and what has been removed.  Many of the new features are cool, but I think I will wait until a newer version comes back with these features added back in.

The links below will help you restore your application back to the previous version 6.14.4, the latest update before 7.01. Make sure for follow the instructions here to Turn Off Auto Updates. so you don't get it back until you want it.

Download Google Maps Version 6.14.4

Google Maps Version History

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