Google Maps, one of the most popular navigation apps in the world, is introducing new features in India to help drivers navigate through the country’s challenging road conditions. With its large population and congested roads filled with obstructions, India offers a unique set of navigation challenges. To address this, Google has developed an AI model specifically for Indian roads.
The AI model estimates road width using satellite imagery and Street View data. It takes into account various factors such as the type of road, the distance between buildings, tree covers, poles, and drains. This information helps users avoid narrow roads, especially when they are driving a four-wheeler or riding a two-wheeler. The update will also benefit pedestrians who rely on Google Maps for walking directions.
When users choose the four-wheeler mode in Google Maps, the app now shows routes that avoid narrow roads. Additionally, the app includes callouts to warn users about upcoming narrow sections along their route. This feature is initially being rolled out on Android devices in eight cities and will soon be available on iOS as well.
Another significant update in India is the integration of flyover callouts within the navigation experience. This feature allows users to see upcoming flyovers along their route and make informed decisions about whether to take the flyover or find an alternate route. Previously, Google Maps provided vague instructions like “take a ramp,” which was not commonly used or understood in India. The new callouts provide clearer instructions like “take a flyover,” making navigation easier and less confusing for drivers. Flyover callouts will be available in 40 cities across India for both four-wheelers and two-wheelers.
In addition to these navigational updates, Google Maps has also added electric vehicle (EV) charging station information in India. This feature was first introduced in the United States in 2018 and has now been extended to India. Users can search for charging stations on Google Maps and see information about plug types supported at the available stations. This update is especially significant as electric two-wheelers dominate the Indian EV market. It is the first time that Google Maps is showing two-wheeler EV charging stations as part of its global rollout.
Furthermore, Google Maps has announced a partnership with India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and Namma Yatri, a Google-backed ride-hailing app. This collaboration aims to provide users with an end-to-end booking experience for local trains, autorickshaws, and metro rides. Users in Kochi and Chennai can now book Metro tickets directly within the Google Maps interface through the Namma Yatri integration. After making the payment, users receive their ticket in the form of a QR code. Google plans to expand this feature to more cities and modes of transportation in the future.
In terms of content discovery, Google Maps has introduced curated lists of places in select Indian cities in partnership with Magicpin and NDTV Food. Users can now find lists of recommended places when searching for specific terms like “Best Ocean-View Cafes in Goa” or “Top breakfast places in Mumbai.” This feature was previously available in select cities in the United States and Canada.
To enhance user experience, Google has updated its interface to make it easier for users to report incidents on the road. Users can now report crashes, slowdowns, construction, lane closures, stalled vehicles, and objects on the road through tappable icons across Android, iOS, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
In conclusion, Google Maps is continuously improving its navigation experience in India with new features and updates. The AI model for Indian roads, along with the ability to avoid narrow roads and provide clearer instructions for using flyovers, will greatly benefit users in the country. The integration of EV charging station information, the partnership with Namma Yatri for booking local transportation, and the introduction of curated lists for content discovery further enhance the app’s functionality. With these updates, Google Maps aims to provide a seamless and reliable navigation experience for users in India, where road conditions can be challenging.
Source link
