NI Bureau
On Thursday, Google introduced a suite of new features designed to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of travel through its Maps service in India. These advancements, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and local partnerships, are set to redefine navigation across the country’s intricate road networks.
Avoid Narrow Roads with Precision
Among the most notable updates is a feature aimed at helping four-wheeler drivers steer clear of narrow roads. Given the challenge of assessing road widths across India’s diverse infrastructure, Google’s AI-driven solution promises a smoother driving experience. This model utilizes satellite imagery, Street View, and other data to gauge road dimensions, enhancing safety for all road users.
Miriam Daniel, VP and GM of Google Maps, elaborated, “To address this challenge, we’ve developed an AI model tailored for Indian roads. This model integrates various data sources—such as satellite imagery and Street View—to accurately estimate road widths and improve navigation.”
Improved Safety with Clear Alerts
Google Maps is also introducing ‘clear callouts’ on Directions and Navigation screens. These alerts will notify users of narrow sections along their route, allowing them to navigate with greater caution or choose an alternate path. This proactive feature is designed to enhance road safety and enable users to make better-informed travel decisions.
Navigating City Flyovers Made Easy
Another new feature is the flyover callouts, designed to assist drivers in managing city traffic. This tool will guide users in deciding whether to take a flyover or stay on the road below. Available to Android users in 40 cities this week, this feature will soon be accessible on iOS and CarPlay platforms.
Lalitha Ramani, GM of Google Maps India, noted, “Flyover callouts will roll out in 40 cities across India for both four-wheelers and two-wheelers on Android apps and Android Auto. iOS and CarPlay users can expect this feature soon.”
Expanded EV Charging Information
Google Maps now provides comprehensive details about EV charging stations across India. Users can view information such as plug types and real-time availability. This update, developed in collaboration with ElectricPe, Ather, Kazam, and Statiq, includes data on over 8,000 charging stations and is the first global initiative to offer detailed information on EV charging stations for two-wheelers.
Metro Ticket Booking Directly in the App
Google Maps now enables metro ticket bookings through a new partnership with ONDC and Namma Yatri. This feature is available for metro services in Kochi and Chennai, streamlining the travel experience.
Expanding Reach and Future Developments
The new features will be available on Android devices in eight cities—Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Indore, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati—starting this week. The rollout to iOS devices and additional cities is expected to follow soon.
Pioneering Sustainable Navigation Solutions
Google’s latest updates reflect a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, making travel in India more efficient and environmentally friendly. By harnessing AI and local expertise, Google Maps is setting new standards for smarter, safer, and more sustainable transportation.
