Google Maps Apps Updated With Lane Guidance, New Offline Maps, and More

Google on Tuesday has updated its Maps apps for Android and iOS with new features. The updated apps are a big improvement from the last version of apps, and include better control of offline maps apart from a number of other important navigation features.

The updated Google Maps on iOS (v 3.0.0) and Android (version varies with devices) can be downloaded from the respective app stores.

Lane guidance feature

The Google Maps apps now show turn-by-turn navigation along with a lane guidance feature to drivers with GPS-enabled devices. The navigation will show lane guidance on a route with exit options, so the drivers can know if they should stay in their lane or move over. They can also get easy access to alternate routes while navigating. Google has detailed the steps about navigation on a separate blog page.

Save maps to use offline

The updated integration of saving the maps for offline use is a much needed big update. In order to save the map for a particular destination, a user needs to sign-in and search for a destination, tap on its place info sheet and then select Save map to use offline . The user can save the map with a custom name. Saved maps can be seen with a tap on the profile icon next to the search box in the top right corner, and users scroll to see the map saved with that custom name.

Uber app integration

This integration will work if users have the Uber app installed on their device. They can compare their Uber ride from the directions tab, which shows transit schedule and walking options with time, in some cities as of now. This will tell users about the waiting time for an Uber car and they can choose to complete request from Uber app.

New filters for venue, train timings

The other integrations include new filters for browsing through the restaurants, bars and hotels nearby if available, such as opening hours, star rating, prices, and more. For frequent train travellers, the training timing information can be accessed from the app with even the 'last train home' filter, if available.

The app now also has the ability to see the places saved from an account across all devices with the same. The saved 'star icon' card can be seen with just a tap. Users planning holidays can see a street view of a getaway place, where available. Google even has a page to tell users where it is working for the street view.