Google is promoting its updated maps app for Android phones and tablets by showing a visitor using it in downtown Detroit.
The Google Maps app-user visits lively LJ's Lounge on Michigan Avenue in Corktown.
The fast-paced TV spot, released Tuesday and embedded below, includes scenes of a Tigers game, the People Mover, downtown's skyline, Lafayette Coney Island, the Westin Book Cadillac, St. Andrew's Hall and an obligatory Michigan Central Station drive-by. The Googler also mingles with bikers at LJ's Lounge, a self-proclaimed "dive bar" on Michigan Avenue in Corktown.
At a Reddit comment thread about the commercial, a user who goes by ArcsReddit says: "That was pretty cool to see a positive reflection of Detroit. It's a good break from all the negative stuff that gets put out there." Another observes: "Great to see Google featuring footage to possibly attract tourists!"
At the same conversation, Daniel C. Smith adds a wry note:
Can't believe this is real! I kept waiting for a punchline moment where the phone is snatched out of the person's hand while they're walking down the street.
-- Alan Stamm
