Google Maps is ready to launch over 100 AI-powered improvements in 2021. This includes weather conditions, indoor Live View, curbside grocery pickups, and eco-friendly transportation options.
According to an official from the search engine giant, the primary aim of these updates is to provide users with the most up-to-date and accurate information about the entire world, precisely when you need it.
Here are some of them in no particular order:
Weather Layer
A new weather layer on Google Maps implies that getting caught in the rain will become a thing of the past. You can quickly see the forecasted and current conditions and temperatures when you switch on the feature, along with how unhealthy or healthy the air is.
The weather layer is powered by data obtained from AirNow.gov, The Weather Company, as well as the Central Pollution Board. It is expected to hit the United States, Australia, and India in the next few months with even more countries to come.
Indoor Live View
Live View was launched in 2019, designed to guide folks through unfamiliar towns or confusing cities via digital directions and overlaying virtual arrows on real-world views.
Google Maps added landmarks to the augmented reality function in October and is now expanding Live View by taking it indoors.
Curbside Grocery Pickup
Many people have settled down into the lockdown lifestyle, despite the re-opening of local restaurants and shops. This includes curbside pickup and delivery.
And in response to this, Google is adding several details like pickup and delivery windows, delivery providers, fees, as well as order minimums to the Business Profiles of stores. This feature will launch on mobile search with Albertsons Cos. and Instacart in the United States with plans to expand to Maps as well as other partners.
Eco-friendly Travel
Google Maps is committed to helping people minimize their environmental footprint. Therefore, it will default to the route with the lowest carbon footprint, especially when it has more or less the same ETA as the fastest option.
If the green alternative increases your estimated time of arrival significantly, Google invites its users to compare the impact of CO2 and then make their choices. If you want the fastest route at all times, all you need to do is adjust your preferences within the app’s settings.
Google Maps also shows solidarity with every city’s established low emission zones by alerting drivers when they are navigating through areas that restrict the pollution of traffic. You can quickly and easily know if your vehicle is permitted within the area so that you can take another route – if not – or choose an alternative mode of transportation.