MapQuest returns

MapQuest, once the favourite website for online directions, is relaunching with a fresh look that some say closely resembles Google Maps, the competitor that surpassed it in 2008. The beta version of AOL Inc.’s mapping unit gets rid of its scrawled red logo in favour of a non-serif font in green and blue, the Associated Press reports. Instead of scrolling down to see the map, visitors see it immediately, like in Google Maps, and one single box exists for searching, instead of many. What’s more, the new version lets users ask for directions to and from several points. After mapping out a route, they can search for parks, gas stations, shops and other landmarks. It if works out, the beta version could become the MapQuest default in August, although users could still use the old one if they prefer.

AP