Last night, we went to Centerstage Jupiter to attend the Google I/O Extended Manila. It was organized by the Google Developers Group (GDG) Philippines, led by Mr. Jomar Tigcal.

Google I/O is an annual meetup of Google developers and users all over the world. Everyone can join its Google Hangout or watch the livestream on Youtube. Keynote speakers from the Google Headquarters have featured the latest and hottest gadgets and services that Google has to offer.

Although this year's conference is not as flashy as last year's, with people jumping off a plane to introduce Google Glass, it is just as much packed with new technologies being developed by Google. Here are some highlights of last night's announcements:

Google Maps Mobile Version
Because mobile is the current trend of technology, Google will provide a smartphone version of Google Maps that will let drivers conveniently explore the area and browse for restaurants, shops, and other establishments. It will also help drivers by suggesting new routes in case of a traffic jam.

Google+ Auto Awesome
Auto Awesome is just one of the many new features of Google+. With it, users can do a quick edit of their photos when they upload these to their profiles. Google+ also introduced a new interface with several columns where you can put specific updates.

Google Voice Search
You will be able to start a voice search in your desktop's Google Chrome. By just saying, "OK, Google," you can ask questions and Google will answer them. According to Google, this feature will be available soon.

Google Play Music All Access
This service very much resembles Spotify where you can have access to millions of streaming tracks by paying a monthly subscription.

As for our local update of Google activities here in the Philippines, mapping of all the election precints all over the country has been successful. This will be very practical and useful in the coming 2016 national elections.

The Google I/O Extended Manila was sponsored by Globe, Globe Labs, Smart Smart DevNet, Kickstart, Ideaspace, and Tapjoy.