Google continues to enhance its AI capabilities across its services, including Google Maps. During I/O 2024, the tech giant announced several new features, including Geospatial AR content powered by AI to improve navigation and exploration. Recently, Google introduced additional AI-powered features specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by Google Maps users in India.
Six New AI-Powered Features for Google Maps in India
Google has unveiled six new features for Maps aimed at improving navigation and user experience in India. These features include enhanced navigation for narrow roads, flyover callouts, curated lists for exploring new places, and more. Google has mapped over 7 million kilometers of Indian roads, 300 million buildings, and 35 million businesses and places to offer more accurate navigation. These new features are designed with the help of local partners and AI technology to further enhance the user experience.
Improved Navigation for Four-Wheelers
Navigating narrow roads is a common challenge for four-wheeler drivers in India. To address this, Google is introducing a new narrow roads feature. This AI model, specifically developed for Indian roads, estimates road widths by analyzing multiple signals, including satellite imagery, Street View data, and information about road types and distances between buildings. The app will suggest alternative routes to avoid narrow roads, and if unavoidable, users will receive alerts to proceed cautiously. This feature aims to reduce stress for drivers and improve safety for bikers and pedestrians. It will initially roll out in eight cities: Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Indore, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati.
Flyover Callouts for Better Navigation
Navigating flyovers can be confusing, especially in unfamiliar areas. To address this, Google Maps will now provide callouts for flyovers on recommended routes. This will help drivers anticipate and prepare for upcoming flyovers. The feature will be available for both four-wheelers and two-wheelers in 40 cities across India.
EV Charging Station Information
With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) in India, finding charging stations has become essential. Google Maps will now show detailed information about EV charging stations. Google has partnered with local providers like ElectricPe, Ather, Kazam, and Statiq to offer real-time availability, plug types, and other essential details, including support for two-wheeler EVs.
Metro Ticket Bookings
To streamline public transportation, Google is collaborating with ONDC and Namma Yatri to offer metro ticket booking in Indian cities, starting with Kochi and Chennai. Users will now be able to book and pay for metro tickets directly through the app, eliminating the need to queue at the station.
Incident Reporting
Google Maps is making it easier for users to report incidents. Users can now report construction or traffic mishaps with a few taps and confirm others’ reports, increasing the reliability of this user-generated information. This update is available across all platforms, including Android, iOS, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
Curated Lists for Discovering New Places
To help users discover the best places to visit, eat, and explore, Google Maps will now feature curated lists of popular spots from local experts and the Google Maps community. Users can create, share, and collaborate on lists of favorite spots, making it easier to plan trips and outings. These lists offer recommendations for various cities and tourist spots in India, helping users discover the best places to visit, dine, and explore.
Google’s latest AI-powered features for Maps are set to significantly enhance the navigation and exploration experience for users in India. From improved navigation for four-wheelers and flyover callouts to EV charging station information and metro ticket bookings, these updates are designed to address the unique challenges faced by Indian users. The introduction of incident reporting and curated lists further enriches the user experience, making Google Maps an even more indispensable tool for navigating and discovering new places in India.
