Google Maps updated with features that help users navigate indoor areas and take 'eco-friendly' routes

Google made a new announcement on Tuesday, March 30, to tell everyone that it has updated Google Maps, and it will be coming with new cool features. One of the interesting additions is said to be indoor navigation using AR.

What’s new in Google Maps

Google revealed the changes through a blog post titled “Redefining what a map can be with new information and AI.” The tech company listed several features that users will soon see and experience while using Google Maps.

Everyone uses this application when traveling especially if they are not familiar with the routes. This also helps in finding alternative ways to get to a certain location, but with the updated version, people can also get help with navigating through indoor spaces.

This means that people can now easily find their way around malls, airports, and even train stations. This feature will function with the augmented reality (AR) technology.

Google Maps updated its Live View AR feature to provide digital guides and directions not just on roads but indoors as well. Now users can find ATMs, gates, reception areas, and more by just looking at the markers and arrows on Google Maps after searching for a specific place.

Google stated that the indoor navigation feature would initially be available in malls located in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Jose, Seattle, Newark, and Long Island. In the coming months, it will include the train stations, malls, and airports in Zurich and Tokyo. Other cities not mentioned will eventually have this Google Map feature too.

Google Maps’ “eco-friendly” routes

Reuters reported that Google would also add air quality information, grocery store pickup areas, and an option to choose eco-friendly routes when driving. With this feature, Google Maps will direct drivers to routes with the most environmentally-sound roads for the journey.

These are the trails with the lowest estimated carbon emissions based on traffic, slopes, and other considerations. Finally, Google said it would debut these features later this year in the U.S., and other countries will follow later. It added that the upgrade in Google Maps is one way it is fulfilling its commitment to helping fight climate change.