Google Maps Update: Immersive View for Routes
Google continues to enhance its app with the power of AI. The latest addition is the highly anticipated feature called “Immersive View for routes”, which was previously announced at Google I/O. This AI-powered feature is now available in select cities on Android and iOS devices.
With Immersive View for routes, Google Maps users have the ability to preview every segment of their chosen route before embarking on their journey, whether it be by car, walking, or cycling. This new feature utilizes AI technology to combine billions of Street View and aerial images, creating a realistic digital representation of the world.
Gone are the days of viewing a flat route on your screen. Immersive View offers a multidimensional experience, allowing users to visualize not only the route, but also bike lanes, sidewalks, intersections, and parking options.
The initial release of Immersive View covers the following cities worldwide: Amsterdam, Berlin, Dublin, Florence, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Paris, Seattle, San Francisco, San Jose, Tokyo, and Venice.
In addition to the introduction of Immersive View, Google is also announcing deeper integration of Lens for more accurate navigation. Users can now tap the Lens icon in the search bar and point their phone towards nearby ATMs, transit stations, restaurants, coffee shops, and stores to access relevant information.
Deeper Lens integration will be rolled out to over 50 new cities this week, including Austin, Las Vegas, Rome, Sao Paolo, and Taipei.
Lastly, Google has enhanced the experience for electric vehicle (EV) drivers by providing more helpful charging station information. Starting this week, EV drivers on Android and iOS will be able to see if a charger is compatible with their vehicle, as well as whether available chargers are fast, medium, or slow. This globally rolled out feature will be available on Android and iOS wherever EV charging station info is accessible.
