New Google Maps features prepare transit riders for a post-COVID future
What you need to know
- Google is making updates to Maps to adapt to our new normal.
- It's rolling out an update to Maps that will let users see how crowded transit stations are.
- Google will only use data from customers who have turned on Location History to power this service.
Google is making changes to its Maps app to reflect how we're going to be traveling post lockdown. It'll now show COVID-19 alerts on public transit routes that are going to be affected by travel restrictions. For example, in the United Kingdom, you're going to need a mask if you want to ride on the London's Tube or bus routes, Google Maps will now update to alert you of that fact and keep you prepared. It'll also show you alerts about medical requirements and guidelines if you're heading to COVID-19 testing centers. Driving alerts will also pop up you're on a route where you may face checkpoints or restrictions placed to control the spread. Again, all these alerts are to keep you informed and prevent you from making a wasted trip.
The public transit alerts will roll out in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Colombia, France, India, Mexico, Netherlands, Spain, Thailand, United Kingdom and the U.S. Driving alerts for routes which are impacted by COVID-19 checkpoints will come to Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. For those headed ti COVID-19 testing areas, alerts for requirements and restrictions will; be made available in Israel, the Philippines, South Korea, and the U.S., and testing center alerts will be available in the U.S.
The Maps app will also help you properly socially distance while riding on buses or trains. Ramesh Nagarajan, Product Management Director, Google Maps, said in a blog post.
As lockdowns cease worldwide, people are going to be making more and more use of public transit. While states have announced measures to help reduce any potential viral transmission, it's only natural that people are still going to be wary of being in a packed, crowded space. The new Maps update should be available from today, but it'll be rolling out over the next few weeks. In other words, you'll get it when the server-side gods decide you're worthy, and not a moment before.
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