Google, amidst the news
regarding the delay in the roll-out of Android 5.0 Lollipop update, announced
that it will roll out its new Material Design-inspired Maps app soon to
Android and iOS users.
"Over the next few days, when you open up
Google Maps on your Android or iPhone, you'll be greeted by bright
colours and a fresh new design," said
Evelyn Kim, Google Maps UX Designer on the company's UK blog post on Wednesday.
Set to reach both Android and iOS
devices, the new revamped Maps will include functionality like direct
link to the OpenTable restaurant platform for bookings. Notably, the
feature will first reach the US region. Google had first introduced OpenTable
integration in its Search app.
Besides OpenTable integration, the
new Maps app will also include new Uber integration features, showing
users the estimated pick-up time and price for the Uber ride. Other
public transport journey prices will also be shown alongside. For this,
the users would need to install Uber app on their handsets. Notably,
Google had back in May announced its first Uber integration
features for its Maps app, allowing users in some cities to compare
their Uber ride with transit and walking directions from Google Maps.
The
Material Design-based Maps app, according to Google, will let users
discover places with much ease and experience the new layered design for
easy navigation. "With Google Maps' new material feel, layers and
buttons come to life so you know just where to touch to get directions,
recommendations and imagery," adds a significant part of Kim's
announcement.
Tapping on the selected place's info at the bottom
of the screen, will pop up photos, review and other options. Google is
once again touting the Explore button, introduced in July,
in the new Maps app, which available at the bottom of the map.
Android Oreo Now on 0.3 Percent of Active Devices, Marshmallow Powers Majority: Google14 November 2017
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