Google Maps is revolutionizing navigation in India with the introduction of new AI-driven features. With India’s congested roads, narrow streets, and numerous flyovers, these updates aim to help drivers, bikers, and pedestrians navigate these challenging conditions safely and efficiently.
One of the most notable features is the ability to avoid narrow roads. Google has developed an AI model specifically for Indian roads, which takes into account road width, satellite imagery, Street View data, and various environmental factors such as building distance, tree covers, poles, and drains. This information allows Google Maps to recommend alternative routes that avoid narrow roads. Callouts have also been added to notify users about upcoming narrow sections, ensuring they are prepared and can plan accordingly.
The update is initially available on Android devices in eight cities, with iOS support coming soon. This feature will greatly benefit drivers in India, where narrow streets are common, and it will provide a safer and more efficient navigation experience for all users.
In addition to avoiding narrow roads, Google Maps has integrated flyover callouts within the navigation experience. Previously, the app instructed drivers to “take a ramp” when encountering a flyover, which was not commonly understood in India. To address this, Google Maps will now provide clear instructions such as “Take a flyover,” allowing users to make informed decisions about whether to proceed with the flyover or take an alternative route. This feature will be available in 40 cities across India for both four-wheeler and two-wheeler navigation.
Google Maps has also introduced EV charging station information in India. After its initial rollout in the U.S. in 2018, Google has partnered with EV charging providers and aggregators to display information about over 8,000 charging stations on Google Maps. This feature is especially significant as it includes two-wheeler EV charging stations, recognizing the dominance of electric two-wheelers in the Indian market.
Furthermore, Google Maps has expanded its public transport offerings in India. Through a partnership with India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and Namma Yatri, a Google-backed ride-hailing app, users can now book metro tickets in Kochi and Chennai directly within the Google Maps interface. This integration provides a seamless end-to-end booking experience for local trains, autorickshaws, and metro rides. Google plans to add more cities and modes of transport in the future.
To enhance the user experience, Google Maps has introduced curated lists of places in select Indian cities. In partnership with Magicpin and NDTV Food, users can now access lists of recommended places when searching for specific terms like “Best Ocean-View Cafes in Goa” or “Top breakfast places in Mumbai.” This feature aims to provide users with personalized recommendations and make exploring cities easier and more enjoyable.
Finally, Google Maps has updated its interface to make it easier for users to report incidents such as crashes, slowdowns, construction, lane closures, stalled vehicles, and objects on the road. Tappable icons across Android, iOS, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay allow users to quickly report incidents, contributing to a more comprehensive and up-to-date navigation experience for all users.
In conclusion, Google Maps is revolutionizing navigation in India with its new AI-driven features. These updates, including the ability to avoid narrow roads, flyover callouts, EV charging station information, enhanced public transport integration, curated city lists, and incident reporting, aim to provide a safer, more efficient, and personalized navigation experience for all users. Whether driving, biking, or walking, Google Maps is now equipped with the tools to help users navigate India’s unique road conditions with ease.