Google Maps gets smart with its latest update

What makes Google Maps one of the most popular navigation apps is the sheer amount of options it offers. Google has no desire to rest on the laurels and has been regularly adding new features to its Android and iOS apps to make it more relevant and user-friendly. We take a look at some of the latest features that have been added to Maps and how they can help users get the most out of them.

As of now, Route options you can add are avoid motorways, avoid toll roads and avoid ferries.

Remember route preferences

Google Maps by default shows the fastest possible route based on the traffic status on all the possible routes. So, if a route is longer and has several tolls but less traffic, Maps will show only that route. Now Maps allows users a bigger say in the roads they want to take and will remember it for future route suggestions. As of now, Route options you can add are avoid motorways, avoid toll roads and avoid ferries. To access it, open Maps->enter destination, start navigation and tap on the three dots icon at the top of the page and select Route options.

Anyone can share their real-time location with their Google contacts for a fixed duration or until the user turns it off manually.

Share your location

Google Maps not only shows your own location and routes but can also show the route of a family member or friend travelling late at night. Anyone can share their real-time location with their Google contacts for a fixed duration or until the user turns it off manually. To activate it, go to Menu->Share location and follow the instructions. The feature works within Maps and doesn’t ask users to download another app.

You can book a cab and see all the options in Maps just like in an Uber or Ola ap.

Book a cab from Maps

Maps not only provides price estimates and availability of cabs, but even allows users to book a cab and make payment form the Maps app itself. This means you can book a cab and see all the options in Maps just like in an Uber or Ola app. Payment can be made through Paytm, cash or credit cards. The good part is that you don’t need any of these apps to be on your phone to book a cab. However, you will need to link your Ola and Uber accounts with Maps, so it can open the API of these apps within its own interface.