Google Maps Previews Upcoming Features for Android and iOS
Just when you thought it can’t get any better. Google teases you with an awesome video that makes you want more. All I can say is: “Sorry Yelp, I don’t think ordering capabilities are going to cut it this time”.
As reported on 9to5Google yesterday, Google is rolling out this update first to Android with plans of bringing it to iOS ‘soon’ (hopefully we don’t see what happened with GoogleNow happen with this update).
Some of the features observed by 9to5 were:
- Designed for tablets: A dedicated tablet design brings all the features of this new app to Android tablets and iPads, which makes exploring the world from the comfort of your living room much more fluid, smooth and fun.
- Enhanced navigation: In addition to current traffic conditions, we’ve added two new features to help you navigate around traffic. You can now see reports of problems on the road that you can tap to see incident details. While on the road, Google Maps will also alert you if a better route becomes available and reroute you to your destination faster. This feature is available only on Android and is coming soon to iOS.
- Reviews, Zagat and Offers: There’s a new 5.0 star rating system that gives you a quick read on how your friends and others rate places like restaurants, bars and cafes. For an expert’s opinion, the Zagat badge of excellence and curated lists are integrated into search results so you can quickly spot the very best places. From “Best Restaurants to meet for a drink in NYC” to “Best Restaurants in the Mission” in San Francisco, Zagat’s there to help you uncover the local gems.
New Google Maps for Android Tablet:
New Google Maps for Android Smartphone:
This update will have the Android app look more similar to the Google Maps App on iOS. Although, because carriers and manufactures are generally not in a hurry to push updates on Android, only 60% of Android users will be able to use the new maps app (w/ Android 4.03+); VS over 90% of iOS users are already on iOS 6+ (giving them access to the new features when they arrive).
Kevin is an Online and Mobile Marketing Strategist who has worked with companies of all sizes over the last 6 years. You can follow Kevin on any of the social platforms below.
