Getting around using Google’s navigational tools is getting a bit of an upgrade.
Google wants to make it easier to reach your final destination, and it’s releasing a few new updates for Google Maps and Waze to help along that path.
The improvements were announced in a post on Google’s The Keyword blog on Wednesday and detail the changes that are coming to Google Maps and Waze. Each navigational system is getting a couple of new or improved features. For example, Google Maps is getting incident reporting and new guidance features, and Waze is getting camera alerts and real-time traffic information.
In Maps, the incident reporting feature is more of a community effort. Rolling out now, the ability to report incidents and helpful traffic information is getting easier. According to Google’s blog post, “You’ll see larger reporting icons that are easier to tap so you can more quickly share updates — like that closed lane that backed up traffic on your way to work. Other drivers can then confirm the incident with just a tap to help drivers passing by.”
Google Maps is also getting new guidance to help you find the right building. As you approach your destination, the building you’re looking for (extremely useful in apartment complexes) is highlighted on the map, along with associated parking nearby. This feature is expected to roll out “in the coming weeks.”
Waze is currently rolling out the ability to see the purpose of cameras along a route. For example, if you’re approaching a camera that snaps a picture of your license plate for speed enforcement, Waze will notify you of that. Additional cameras that monitor lights, HOV lanes, and seatbelt or hands-free violations will also be noted.
Also currently rolling out on Waze is the ability to share real-time traffic information with your friends. If you drive through an area that’s impacted by an event—a concert, parade, or the Olympics—you’ll receive a popup on your phone that shows the cause of the event and helpful information, like road closures, that you can share with your friends to help them navigate the area if necessary. You can even do it from your phone’s lock screen (starting later this month).
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News Summary:
- Google Maps and Waze Are Getting More 'Helpful' Features
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