Google Maps Mapplet

Google Maps Mapplet launched. They are mini-applications that any developer can build on top of the Google Maps site . You can then choose which of these Mapplets you want to see overlaid on the same map and combine them with the built-in features of Google Maps, like driving directions and business search. Thes are basically Mashups.You dont need to know what mashups are to use it.

You can create your own mashups from the content that's most relevant to you. Thereseems to be a reason,story as to why google created it.

"One day we were looking at two of the original Google Maps mashups, HousingMaps.com and ChicagoCrime.org, and we realized it would be even more useful if they could be combined because most people wouldn't want to live near high crime areas. We also noticed that most of you were not aware that these great sites even existed.These two realizations led us to create Mapplets"