Google Maps for Android has been updated this week with traffic incident reports, alternate routes, an “Explore” local discovery function, recommendations from your Google Circles friends, integrated Zagat reviews, and better functionality on tablets. Google has also retired Latitude and check-ins, and has temporarily removed My Maps.
The app is gradually rolling out everywhere in Google Play and the updated iOS version will also be available in Apple’s App Store “soon”, according to Google.
Here are the changes in more detail:
Traffic incident reporting and rerouting: Besides the standard current traffic conditions, you can now see reports of specific problems on the road, and you can tap on a report to see incident details. Google Maps will alert you if a better route becomes available and reroute you to your destination faster. To see more alternate routes, swipe the bottom info sheet left or right. So far, these features are currently available only on Android, but Google says they’re “coming soon” to iOS.
Offline maps caching change: When you view a map you want to access later, you now have two ways to save it for offline access: you can either type “OK Maps” into the search box, or just tap the empty search bar and select “Make this map area available offline” from the menu. Some users have reported that Google has increased the cache size of each offline map area, so if you are saving an entire city, you may need to split your saves into two areas, and Google Maps will seamlessly piece them together.
Explore: The new Explore feature is designed to help you browse and discover new places without even typing search queries. Instead, just tap the search box and you’ll see cards that suggest popular or recommended places nearby to eat, drink, sleep and shop. To show or hide place details, tap or pull up the info sheet header from the bottom of the screen.
Reviews, Zagat, and Offers: When you search for restaurants, bars, or other hot spots, you’ll now see a 5-star rating system that gives you a quick read on how your Google Circles friends and others rate places. For Zagat-rated restaurants and bars, you’ll also see curated lists, and a Zagat badge of excellence if applicable. Finally, Google Offers will show you relevant promotions or discounts.
Latitude and check-ins removed: Most of us have by now grown bored at seeing our friends’ location check-ins, and Google gets that. The new Google Maps no longer includes Latitude location sharing and check-ins, and Google says these features will no longer function in older versions of the app by August 9. If you still want to see your friends and family on a map, you can share your locations and check-ins using Google+ for Android, which Google says is also coming soon to iOS.
My Maps temporarily removed: For this release, Google has removed the “My Maps” function, but plans to include it again in future versions of the app, so our guess is that it will return with some major new features. If you want to create custom maps, you can still do so using Maps Engine Lite on desktop.
Tablet-friendly design: Hurray! Google Maps now adjusts for larger screens on Android tablets and iPads, so armchair travelers no longer have to leave the comfort of the house.
The newest Google Maps for mobile is compatible with Android Ice Cream Sandwich and Jelly Bean, as well as iOS 6+ when available. Some of the features mentioned here are not available in all countries.
