Google announces much awaited new features for their maps in India
Google has announced a suite of new features for Google Maps in India, leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance navigation, public transport access and community contributions. They have tailored their offerings to meet the unique challenges of the country’s diverse road networks and transportation needs. Which means you possibly won’t end up in a lake or narrow walking streets with your car!
One of the key updates is an AI-powered feature designed to help four-wheeler drivers navigate India’s often narrow and congested roads. Utilising a custom-built AI model that assesses road widths from satellite imagery, Street View and other data sources, Google aims to minimise the use of narrow roads in route planning.
The feature, currently rolling out in eight cities including Hyderabad and Bengaluru, offers clear callouts in navigation screens to warn drivers about upcoming narrow roads, allowing for safer and more informed driving decisions.
Additionally, Google Maps is introducing callouts for flyovers, a common feature in Indian cities. This update aims to assist drivers and riders in navigating these elevated roadways, making it easier to determine whether to take a flyover or stay on the service road. This feature will be available in 40 cities across India, supporting both four-wheeler and two-wheeler navigation.
As electric vehicles become more prevalent in India, Google Maps is expanding its coverage to include detailed information about EV charging stations. In collaboration with local partners like ElectricPe and Ather, the platform now provides real-time data on over 8000 charging stations. This includes information on plug types, availability and even specific support for two-wheeler EVs. This marks the first instance of Google Maps offering EV charging station details specifically for two-wheelers.
Google Maps is also simplifying metro ticket bookings in Kochi and Chennai through a partnership with ONDC and Namma Yatri. Users can now book metro tickets directly via the app, streamlining the process and reducing the need for physical transactions at stations. This feature aims to enhance the public transportation experience and is expected to expand to more cities in the future.
Google Maps continues to leverage its large community of local contributors in India, enabling users to report road incidents more easily. The update simplifies the reporting process, allowing users to share information on traffic conditions, construction and other incidents with just a few taps. This feature is available across all platforms, including Android, iOS and CarPlay.
Which one of these features are the most convenient according to you? Let us know in the comments below.
