The new application for Android phones allows users to create and share maps directly on the handset, as well as synchronize them with their PC.Here's another project brought to you by a Googler's 20% time. This Maps product was the brainchild of Google software engineer Brian Cornell. According to him, it took him and some others four months to bring the project to fruition. My Maps Editor is now available for download in Android Market.

The application lets users create, edit, share, and view personalized maps on their Android-powered phone, as well as synchronize with the My Maps tab on Google Maps. Cornell explains, "Create a map on your desktop computer using Google Maps and then take it with you on the go and update it on location. My Maps Editor by Google supports full editing functionality for markers, lines, and shapes on maps, plus the ability to mark your location using GPS or attach a photo directly from your phone. Your maps are automatically synchronized with your My Maps on the Web."

I don't currently have an Android-powered handset, so I haven't been able to take the software for a test run. Cornell provides several examples of how the software can be used, including planning holiday shopping routes, mapping out where to view holiday lights and decorations, as well as keeping track of travels.

What I like best is that everything automatically syncs between the handset and the desktop. That's key to making it easy and seamless to use and transfer information.

Android users, feel free to download the application from the Android Market.