Google Maps has been, and remains, a real revolution for all travellers - especially business travellers - getting from one place to another. Whatever the means of transport used. Admittedly, there are a few glitches, particularly when it comes to walking itineraries - which are sometimes longer than they need to be. But Google Maps has clearly become an essential tool for getting around, especially in urban areas.
15 cities around the world with Immersive View
Google is also continuing to improve its guidance. At the beginning of 2023, the American company launched "Immersive View".. A tool that transforms the way users explore a place. Google uses AI to merge billions of images and create a multi-dimensional view of the world with reliable information superimposed. Launched in February, Immersive View is now available in four new cities: Amsterdam, Dublin, Florence and Venice. Immersive View will be available in 15 cities by the end of the year.. Google is also due to offer this service in Berlin, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Paris, Seattle, San Francisco, San Jose and Tokyo.
The service is also available for over 500 iconic sites worldwide on Android and iOS.. From Prague Castle to Sydney Harbour Bridge and Faneuil Hall in Boston...
Google Maps now lets you virtually fly over a building and its surrounding neighbourhood. What's more, the application can anticipate the day's weather, thanks to a weather scroll bar. And when the data is available, users can identify the interior of restaurants and cafés.
For regular visitors who don't need too many details, Google is also launching the glanceable directions which can be used to quickly identify which crossroads to turn at in a car, for example. Or which pedestrian crossing to take.
An option must be activated to benefit from itineraries at a glance. By entering the requested route, Google Maps AI calculates arrival and departure times and traffic details. Glanceable" routes began to be rolled out worldwide in June for walking, cycling and driving modes on Android and iOS..
Live View for getting around airports and stations
Other recent applications include the ability to search for the most fuel-efficient route. Simply click on an icon symbolising a tree to see the potential savings.
As for Live ViewSimply activate the option in the travel mode toolbar. After following the on-screen instructions, the route will come to life thanks to the camera view that appears on the screen. The phone will vibrate when you change direction or reach your destination. Live View makes it easier to navigate in airports, stations and shopping centres..
" This was one of the most complex features to implement in Maps, as it relies on Street View imagery combined with cutting-edge AI and augmented reality technology." explains Amanda Leicht Moore, Director of Product Management for Maps.
