Google Maps for iOS and Android is getting a beefy update today, with features such as Uber integration, lane guidance, and improvements to offline maps, as well as more, making their way to both versions.
Uber integration: If you have the Uber app installed, pressing the “Get an Uber” option in Google Maps will show an estimated transportation time when looking for public transport or walking directions. While the integration is available “in some cities,” once you press the Uber option, it’ll take you to the Uber app. If, on the other hand, you prefer public transportation, Google Maps now shows over a million public transit stops.
Lane guidance: Google Maps also now shows you which lane to stay in or move to while driving. It will also show you alternate routes while you’re navigating. For now, the feature is only supported in the U.S. and parts of Canada and Japan. No word on when this feature will expand to other countries.
Easier offline saving: While offline support isn’t new for either the iOS or Android version of Google Maps, it has been improved with this latest update. Now, you can search a specific area, tap its place info sheet, and select “Save map to use offline.” You can also assign a custom map name, if you so desire. To access the saved map, you’ll have to sign in, tap the profile icon next to the search box, and scroll to see any saved maps you have.
Better browsing and train times: However, let’s not forget about the smaller features included in the update. You can now browse through restaurants, bars, and hotels by opening hours, rating, price, and more. When you search for directions to a specific location, if you plan on taking the train there, for example, you can now choose the time and day you want to leave. It will even show the last train that will depart for the night, if you plan on going out and about in the very early morning hours.
The Google Maps update is now live for iOS and Android.
(Image courtesy of Wired)
