Google has launched a turn-by-turn GPS navigation system for handsets running its Android operating system in the UK and Ireland, absolutely free of charge.

The newly launched Google Maps Navigation is available for all handsets running 1.6 or later version of Android operating system.

Google Maps Navigation, which until now was available only in the US, is an Internet-connected GPS service which offers turn-by-turn voice guidance on Google Maps.

Company’s mobile maps group product manager, Steve Lee, said the service would offer value "not only when you're lost or don't know where you're going but even on your daily commute."

Google’s new service could prove to be a serious threat to old service providers such as TomTom, which charges fees to guide motorists to their destinations. TomTom for Apple iPhone charges more than 50 pounds for the service.