New Google Maps Update Will Warn Users When Their Ride Goes off Route

Google has announced a new update for Indian users of its popular Maps application. Starting today, Android users on the latest version of Maps will be able to receive notifications when their ride goes off track. This can be done as soon as you start tracking the path between your pickup and drop points, with Maps automatically notifying you if the rider has gone off route by up to 0.5 km (0.31 miles).

When the user receives an off route notification, they can automatically choose to share their location and movements with friends or family directly from the app. They can track the ride until the user has reached the predetermined destination and take necessary action if necessary. As of now, this appears to be an “India-first” feature as Google puts it, so we’re not sure how long it will take to reach other users. However, given the feasibility of a feature like this on a global scale, it shouldn’t take long for Google to bring this feature to its users around the world.

As of now, this appears to be an Android-only feature as well, with no word on if or when the iOS version of Maps will get the aforementioned update. In a time when third-party maps applications are struggling to keep up, it’s good to see the Mountain View giant continuing to innovate and bring new features for the safety of its users.

Source: Google Blog

Via: Engadget