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google maps to add more detailed maps, crowd indicators, better routing and more

May 19, 2021
Topics:AIAppsARaugmented realitycitiescrowdsGooglegoogle io 2021Google Mapsmachine learningMapsMedia & Entertainmentnavigation
google maps to add more detailed maps, crowd indicators, better routing and more

Google Maps Receives Significant AI-Powered Updates

Google has revealed a comprehensive set of updates planned for Google Maps. These enhancements are part of a broader initiative to integrate over 100 AI-driven improvements into the platform before the end of the current year.

New Routing Capabilities

The upcoming routing updates will leverage machine learning and real-time navigation data. This aims to minimize instances of abrupt braking – those situations where traffic unexpectedly slows, requiring sudden stops.

Currently, Google Maps determines route options based on factors like lane count and route directness. The update will introduce an additional criterion: identifying routes with the lowest probability of causing hard-braking events. If the estimated time of arrival remains comparable, the system will suggest the route with the fewest anticipated braking moments. Google anticipates this could prevent 100 million hard-braking incidents annually.

Enhanced Live View Experience

Live View, Google Maps’ augmented reality feature launched in 2019, is becoming more accessible. It will soon be directly integrated into the map interface.

Users will be able to instantly explore their surroundings and view details about nearby businesses and restaurants. This includes information on current busyness levels, recent user reviews, and available photos. Updates will also incorporate street signs at complex intersections, and provide location context relative to landmarks like hotels, aiding navigation in unfamiliar areas.

google maps to add more detailed maps, crowd indicators, better routing and moreExpansion of Detailed Street Maps

Google is extending the availability of its more detailed maps, initially launched in New York, San Francisco, and London. These maps provide increased granularity, showcasing both natural elements and street-level details.

This includes the precise location of sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian islands. This information is particularly beneficial for pedestrians, scooter riders, cyclists, and individuals using wheelchairs.

By the close of 2021, these detailed maps will be accessible in 50 additional cities, such as Berlin, São Paulo, Seattle, and Singapore.

google maps to add more detailed maps, crowd indicators, better routing and moreNew “Area Busyness” Feature

A new feature builds upon existing “busyness” data for businesses, derived from anonymized location information shared by Google Maps users. This feature gained prominence during the pandemic, assisting users in avoiding crowded locations.

Now, Google Maps will display busyness information for entire areas or neighborhoods. This will help users either avoid or locate bustling areas, such as street festivals, farmers’ markets, or entertainment districts.

google maps to add more detailed maps, crowd indicators, better routing and morePersonalized Maps Experience

Google Maps will begin to personalize the user interface in novel ways.

The application will display relevant information based on the current time of day and location. For example, coffee shops may be highlighted in the morning, while dinner options become more prominent in the evening.

When traveling, Google Maps will showcase local landmarks and tourist attractions. Users can also tap on a location to discover similar places nearby.

google maps to add more detailed maps, crowd indicators, better routing and moreRollout Timeline

Google states that these features will be released globally on both iOS and Android platforms in the coming months. While a precise schedule for each feature hasn’t been provided, the expanded detailed maps are expected to be available by the end of the year.