Previously, Voice Search in Google Maps 2.3.1 wouldn't work on my VZW Pearl w/earlier versions of 4.5 OS.
Now, with 4.5.0.97 (beta release) it does work. I didn't remember to check w/4.5.0.89 (most recent 8130 OS formally released).
Just wanted to note this - whatever issue GMaps had w/Voice Search in earlier OS releases appears to be going, going, gone.