Google Maps is getting some new updates, including a social feature designed to help people plan and collaborate with their friends. The navigation platform also adds improved transit directions and emoji reactions.
The new social feature is designed to bring group chat planning to Google Maps. The platform is updating its list feature to make it easier for people to share places, plan with friends, and vote on group activities. With this new feature, you’ll be able to create a collaborative list to start planning a Hangout after sharing a place on Maps with friends. All group members can add places they’re interested in visiting and vote with an emoji, like a heart or a thumbs down.
Image credits: Google
Google says the new feature will allow users to plan an outing from start to finish right in the Maps app. For example, you can invite your friends to collaborate on a list to decide all the activities you want to do this winter. Everyone can add activities that interest them, such as ice skating at a specific rink or visiting a Christmas market. As people start voting, everyone can get an idea of which activities are the most popular.
The new update will roll out globally to Android and iOS in the coming weeks.
As for improved transit directions, Google Maps makes it easier to see the best route to your destination, based on factors like ETA, number of transfers, and trip duration. There is also now the option to customize your route based on the type of transportation you want to take or if you want to take a route that requires the least amount of walking.
Plus, you’ll start to see exactly where the station entrances and exits are, which side of the street they are on, and a clear walking route to and from there. These updates will help you make sure you take the right train in the right direction.
Transit updates will begin rolling out to Android and iOS in the coming weeks.
Google Maps also adds emoji reactions to photos, videos, and reviews. If you don’t see an emoji that sums up what you’re feeling, in some cases you can create combined reactions with Kitchen Emoji. Emoji reactions begin rolling out globally today on Android and iOS.
