Google Maps is Getting a Major New Upgrade

Published May 10, 2018 at 9:27 pm

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As if Google wasn’t already watching us!

It’s true that Google Maps is known for giving directions. Whether you choose to drive, take the bus, walk, or bike somewhere, Google Maps is a lot of people’s first choice for a digital map when they’re trying to get somewhere as quickly as possible.

Over the years, Google Maps has become incredibly advanced – the system can now tell you when an area is congested with traffic, when there has been a crash or when there’s construction in a particular area, and of course, it even reroutes when you’ve taken a wrong turn. 

Now, another major upgrade is coming to Google Maps this summer.

This time, the system is getting even more assistive and personal. In a recent blog post, Google revealed a ton of new features coming to Google Maps, and they all revolve around helping you figure out what to eat, drink, or do in whatever area you’re in.

First, there will be a redesigned “Explore” tab, where you’ll find new and interesting things nearby, like restaurants, events, and activities based on the area you’re in. The tab will include trending lists like a “Foodie List” to show you what restaurants are trendy based on local experts and Google algorithms.

“We’ll even help you track your progress against each list, so if you’ve crossed four of the top restaurants in the Meatpacking District off your list, you’ll know that you have six more to try,” reads the post.

Here’s the freaky part – when you tap on a food or drink venue, the new system will show you your “match” which is basically a number that suggests how likely you are to enjoy that place and reasons why.

How does that work?

“We use machine learning to generate this number, based on a few factors: what we know about a business, the food and drink preferences you’ve selected in Google Maps, places you’ve been to, and whether you’ve rated a restaurant or added it to a list,” reads the post.

“Your matches change as your own tastes and preferences evolve over time—it’s like your own expert sidekick, helping you quickly assess your options and confidently make a decision.”

And if you’ve ever tried to coordinate plans at a restaurant, event, or activity with a group, another new feature will allow you to share places with your group, allow group members to vote on options, and once a decision has been made, Google Maps will even allow you to make a reservation and find a ride.

We’re basically living in the future.

But there’s more.

A “For You” tab will display what’s current and happening in the areas you like – you can follow different neighbourhoods and restaurants you want to try, complete with information about each venue that’s customized to you. New matches will pop up based on your history and algorithms.

You’ll see the upgrades roll out over the next few months, according to Google.

What do you think of the new features?

You can learn more here.

Graphics courtesy of Google

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