Google Maps improves iOS navigation and adds Apple Watch support

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Google Maps improves navigation for iOS and adds features for Apple Watch.
Google Maps improves navigation for iOS and adds features for Apple Watch.
Photo: Google

Google is making improvements to its Google Maps for iOS app, including new features and updates intended to make navigation easier on both iPhone and Apple Watch.

Changes to the Google Maps for iOS app include a more-detailed navigation map that shows enhanced building outlines as well as streetlights and stop signs. It’s designed to help users traveling in unfamiliar locations.

Google Maps update

“Driving on unfamiliar roads can be stressful — especially when you’re driving at night or with a car full of people,” Google said in a press release Tuesday. “We’re adding rich new details to Google Maps’ navigation experience so you can explore with confidence.”

Google is also rolling out more detail for iOS and CarPlay in select cities “in the coming weeks.” Details will show things like the width of roads and medians.

Not only that, but users will be able to choose from routes with or without tolls. Routes that include toll roads will display estimated toll pricing, based on factors like time of week and payment methods. Google noted the feature will roll out in April for 2,000 toll roads in the United States, Japan, India and Indonesia.

There are smaller additions, too. A new pinned-trip widget will let users see selected trips. An updated Google Maps search widget features a more compact user interface.

Google said it also plans to add Google Maps integration directly to Apple’s Shortcuts, Spotlight and Siri. After that update, users will be able to ask Siri for directions.

watchOS updates

Regarding watchOS, Google’s additions will let users receive directions straight to their Apple Watch. Soon, Google will let users simply tap the Apple Watch shortcut and navigate from the watch without a connected iPhone.

And a new “Take me home” complication will provide directions back to a location the user can set.

Where to download: App Store

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