Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/Google
Google Maps is undoubtedly the world's most popular mobile navigation app, but that doesn't mean it has already reached the level of perfection where everybody is satisfied with its feature lineup and how it works.
Users still wanted many other features added to Google Maps, and one of the most requested was the integration of scenic routes.
In plain English, it means users don't want to use Google Maps to drive to their destinations in the shortest possible time using the fastest route but on a road that allows them to admire the scenery and enjoy the time spent behind the wheel.
Google is finally making it possible, but in its own way.
Beginning this month, Google Maps users have a new way to configure routes when setting up a destination in the application.
When you configure an address and tap the "directions" button to see the route, you have a new option called "add stops." If you've used Google Maps in the last few years, you probably know that the ability to add multiple spots to your route has been around for a long time. What's changing with this update is the integration of Google recommendations, which can be everything from scenic spots to attractions and landmarks.
Google says it can recommend anything that would enhance your navigation experience, including attractions, dining options, and other points of interest to "help you plan the perfect drive." It's not an automatically suggested scenic route voted by other users – as users originally requested when they asked Google to add scenic routes to Google Maps – but it's the next best thing, considering these suggestions are based on reviews and ratings posted on Google.
The ability to add multiple stops and configure these personalized routes is aimed at Android and iPhone users, and I don't expect them to arrive on Android Auto and CarPlay, considering it involves browsing points of interest. However, you will be able to configure your route on the mobile device and send navigation to the car when you are ready. Google Maps supports adding up to 9 stops for every route you configure on your device.
Meanwhile, Google Maps has received several big updates this year, beginning with the CarPlay speedometer and ending with the incident reporting component on Android Auto and CarPlay. Users can now report hazards on the map, including accidents, speed cameras, roadworks, and bad weather, helping the app generate warnings for other motorists.
The most recent update includes the addition of more traffic data, including crosswalks, traffic lights, and road signs, making the road more predictable and giving drivers more time to slow down. This update is now being distributed to users, but Google says it will only be available in certain locations.
In plain English, it means users don't want to use Google Maps to drive to their destinations in the shortest possible time using the fastest route but on a road that allows them to admire the scenery and enjoy the time spent behind the wheel.
Google is finally making it possible, but in its own way.
Beginning this month, Google Maps users have a new way to configure routes when setting up a destination in the application.
When you configure an address and tap the "directions" button to see the route, you have a new option called "add stops." If you've used Google Maps in the last few years, you probably know that the ability to add multiple spots to your route has been around for a long time. What's changing with this update is the integration of Google recommendations, which can be everything from scenic spots to attractions and landmarks.
Google says it can recommend anything that would enhance your navigation experience, including attractions, dining options, and other points of interest to "help you plan the perfect drive." It's not an automatically suggested scenic route voted by other users – as users originally requested when they asked Google to add scenic routes to Google Maps – but it's the next best thing, considering these suggestions are based on reviews and ratings posted on Google.
The ability to add multiple stops and configure these personalized routes is aimed at Android and iPhone users, and I don't expect them to arrive on Android Auto and CarPlay, considering it involves browsing points of interest. However, you will be able to configure your route on the mobile device and send navigation to the car when you are ready. Google Maps supports adding up to 9 stops for every route you configure on your device.
Meanwhile, Google Maps has received several big updates this year, beginning with the CarPlay speedometer and ending with the incident reporting component on Android Auto and CarPlay. Users can now report hazards on the map, including accidents, speed cameras, roadworks, and bad weather, helping the app generate warnings for other motorists.
The most recent update includes the addition of more traffic data, including crosswalks, traffic lights, and road signs, making the road more predictable and giving drivers more time to slow down. This update is now being distributed to users, but Google says it will only be available in certain locations.
Google News