Google Maps updated with bubble buttons, Transit Navigation improvements

By Alex Dobie
last updated

Google has updated the Google Maps app for Android to version 5.9.0, bringing continued improvements to Transit Navigation, along with a new Labs feature. Here's a rundown of what you'll find in the latest version --

  • Voice and ring tone notifications for Transit Navigation (Beta)
  • Tablet support for Transit Navigation (Beta)
  • 'Bubble Buttons' Lab to add call and navigate buttons to results on the map (see above)

The Transit Navigation changes should be welcomed by anyone that's ever missed their stop on the train or bus, and we always like a new Labs feature to play with. Head to the Android Market to grab the latest update, or use the QR code after the jump.

Alex Dobie
Alex Dobie
Executive Editor

Alex was with Android Central for over a decade, producing written and video content for the site, and served as global Executive Editor from 2016 to 2022.

19 Comments
  • finally fixed my issue with navigating to contacts.
  • Everyone had that issue. Would be nice if, when they introduce such a moronic bug, they'd fix it a tad faster.
  • Nice! I love the new Labs feature. Finally a worthwhile update instead of them only upgrading Latitude like they have been lately.
  • What.
  • Is there anyway to save destinations within google navigation?
  • Why not just star it in Google maps? All you stared places are saved in my places. They show op in nav as well.
  • for the love of god, bring back my maps editor!!!!!!
  • Love the new bubble buttons. Lol. Cal ans navigate. Awesome. Just an fyi this is the third I believe since the new market that the only knew of the update because of Android cenral. I never get notifications from the market. Even worse. I don't even get auto updates for the apps I have checked to do so.
  • Seriously, you expect auto updates on something that is on every single android device worldwide all at the same time?
  • Seems as tho they forgot to add the bubbles feature to contacts in latitude. Would be nice to have it there also
  • Has the issue with auto-dimming in Navigation mode been resolved?
  • the big problem is that each update to the google apps,also increase the size. they have to find the way to fix this.
  • How do you suggest someone add features while decreasing application size?
  • Great update to an already great application.
    Thanks Google PS - please buy T-Mobile USA
  • How many people are out there like me? I don't own a dedicated GPS device because of Google Maps and it's turn by turn directions.
  • My "in car" navigation unit never gets used these days because of Google nav
  • I own one, but barely use it now.
  • when i try to update, google tells me that my package is too large. i don't see how this is googles business.
  • Surely you can afford to be a little more gracious you ingrate!