You’re right that this is only part of the picture, and if Google ends up putting Maps Kiosks in other locations that make sense — like a mall, as you suggest — I’ll be the first one to say how smart it is.

But strictly in terms of gas station pumps? Bad idea, I say.

I think that this is one of those instances where we’re only seeing part of the whole picture.

The idea of Google kiosks in a number of different places is interesting.

Think about one in a shopping mall that tells you where the different stores are located, and will give you coupons to shop at some of them, or tell you how long the wait is at the Ruby Tuesdays, or other shopping mall restaurant, what movies and showing times for them there are at the mall theater.

Or consider Google Kiosks at different locations in Las Vegas that tell you which shows are playing where, where you can find different kinds of food and make reservations for restaurants, and provide information about other services that might be available in Vegas.

I’m guessing that the gas station kiosks are only the first step. I suspect that they could be as ubiquitous at ATMs in a few years.

And, I agree with Patrick. It would not be very effective in large parts of the world. How many people are going to use this sort of thing during the winter? I know I wouldn’t. The faster I can get back into my car where it’s warm, the better.

Once that thought sunk in a little, the clouds parted and the light went on…

I would use it because it’s cool (ie: geeky), 90% of people won’t use it. From the remaining 10%, subtract those who already use GMaps on their phone (like me) and you’re left with zero users.