From what i read on Google Maps, the Beta is gone and you can't go back to Classic. So the big box in the upper left corner remains whether you like it or not. I do not like that box. If i click on the X of the box, the info on the map departs so destination is lost.

Any ideas on fixing/modifying this troublesome 'upgrade'. A downgrade IMO.

Since it's a web-based service nothing to do to go back

Have a look here for alternatives http://www.freemake.com/blog/top-5-free-alternatives-to-google-maps/

http://www.vpike.com

a simple webpage interface, no downloads, no Install, nor up/downgrades ever required/necessary/possible

Does't that box collapse back up if you click anywhere on the map?

You used to be able to click on the question mark in the bottom right and switch back to Classic. The options are still there but now I get an error when selecting switch back to Classic view.

//Edit - It now switches you to Lite mode but still the box in upper left is there. I also don't like that so guess will use PC based Google Earth Pro.