Google Maps will be rolling out new handy updates this month, which include the long-awaited toll price checking feature, new improvements on the map’s details, and new capabilities on Google Maps for iOS. The first two will be launched for selected countries and more will be supported later.
Some of Google Maps’ competitors already had the option to view toll prices so it’s lagging behind in terms of functionality. However, this update proves to be a good one since it expands the popular web mapping app’s list of features on various different versions and platforms.
The new toll price feature on Google Maps allows users to check the estimated toll price on roads—with its data coming from local tolling authorities. The feature also lets you exclude toll roads by choosing the “Avoid tolls” option. The toll prices will be available on both Android and iOS this month, supporting almost 2,000 toll roads in the US, India, Japan, and Indonesia. Support for more countries will come soon.
Aside from this new function, Google Maps also gets more detailed and enhanced maps. These will display things like traffic lights, stop signs, building outlines, areas of interest, and even the shape and width of roads—including their islands and medians. These updates will be available in selected countries in the coming weeks for Android, iOS, Android Auto, and CarPlay.
Lastly, there are new iOS functionalities. Users can now access Google Maps from their home screen with new widgets. Apple Watch now also supports Google Maps and lets you auto-start its navigation. There’s an integration with Spotlight, Siri, and the Shortcuts app, too—letting users use voice commands to access it instantly. You can expect these additions to be rolled out in the coming weeks and months.
This update is definitely jam-packed with improvements, which are most beneficial to travelers in other countries. If you want more cool travel features you can use in the app, then there are also Google Maps’ speed trap alerts and Google Maps’ “Popular Dishes” function for restaurants you can visit.
Image credit: The Keyword | Google
