Google Maps has announced a whole bunch of new works for the coming weeks. The focus is on environmentally friendly driving.
Google Maps is the world’s most popular online map service. Users can set up maps, set routes and get route information on both their desktop and smartphone. For the following weeks, Google Maps has now announced new functions for the application. A thematic focus is the environment. For example, in the future, users will have the option to choose routes specifically suited to the climate. According to the company, this is possible due to advances in artificial intelligence, AI.
New Google Maps tasks should help the environment
In the future someone planning their route with Google Maps will have the option to choose the route that causes the lowest CO2 emissions. It is also selected by default if the travel time does not deviate too much from the fastest route. An AI calculates CO2 pollution of individual routes based on route, elevation, and traffic jam statistics. According to Google Maps, this new function should be available in the USA first, but a global launch is definitely planned.
In addition, there should be a new route view that suggests more environmentally friendly options to users along the way without increasing travel time. AI automatically suggests the means of transport preferred by users, such as bicycles. This should motivate people to switch to more environmentally friendly means of transport more often. According to Google, the related environment infrastructure should also be included.
A new plan has also been made for Germany from June 2021 The ceremony Are available to users Environmental area it shows. In such environmental areas, some exhaust gas regulations apply to vehicles. A compatible message then pops up on the smartphone, suggesting an alternate route if necessary.
The new function brings indoor live views to Google Maps
Google Maps introduced the Live View function to the public last year. Live View uses augmented reality to compare what you see with a smartphone camera with images from Street View. This allows Google Maps to locate the exact position and orientation. You simply look at the smartphone screen, where directional signs are placed directly above Street View.
Until now, live view was only possible outside. in blog post Google states: “Thanks to new developments that help us determine the exact height and location of objects within a building.” This means that it is now also possible to navigate inside buildings that have Street View content. These include airports, train stations and shopping centers.
Now you can be directed to check-in, gate, baggage claim, platform and ticket machine. But there are also signs for elevators, toilets and ATMs. At the moment, Live View for InterView is only available in some cities in the USA, as well as Tokyo and Zurich. But other cities have to follow.
Performing weather and air pollution and many other functions
Google Maps is also getting new map details that can provide even more information about the destination. Options include air quality and weather. If you search for a place using the weather setting, the maps show the current temperature and weather conditions. A one-hour forecast also appears in a box.
With the establishment of air quality, on the other hand, you get more information about the degree of air pollution at the destination. A scale also shows how healthy or unhealthy the air is and whether it is suitable for outdoor activities. Air quality is also useful for people with allergies and provides information about whether the destination is in a forest risk area. According to Google Maps, it works with the weather company and the Central Pollution Board, among others.
In total, more than 100 new improvements are planned for Google Maps, all of which are primarily based on advanced AI technology. Among other things, an assisted driving mode is coming soon in Germany that will include Messenger messages in the application, which users can then read. We will let you know about further innovations.
