Google has also unveiled an AI-powered narrow road callouts feature alongside the ability to find EV charging stations on the Google Maps app.
Google has announced six new features for Google Maps in India, which are built upon Geospatial AR content powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and local partners. All of these features are specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by Google Maps users in India.
Google Maps new AI-powered features: Key details
Flyover callout – To help users prepare for upcoming flyovers while driving, Google Maps has been updated with a new flyover callouts feature. The company says that the feature is designed to eliminate the need to make decisions about taking an upcoming flyover or taking the roads below.
It will be soon available on Android smartphones or Android Auto units and it will be available in 40 cities in the country to begin with. Both two-wheeler and four-wheeler navigation routes will display these callouts.
Narrow road estimation – Google Maps with the help of AI will help users avoid such narrow roads, especially those driving four-wheelers. Using satellite imagery, Street View, and other data, the Maps system will inform about widths and adjust routing algorithms to help drivers navigate congested areas more efficiently. It will be currently available in eight major cities in India including Hyderabad, Chennai, and more.
Metro ticket booking – Google Maps users in Kochi and Chennai can now book metro tickets and the company has partnered with ONDC and Namma Yatri to enable the functionality on the navigation app. This feature will also allow users to select the journey details and make the payment inside the app.
EV charging stations – Google Maps will also display EV charging stations across the country and battery-operated vehicle drivers will be able to see what plug types are supported at the charging station and the current availability. Google has partnered with ElectricPe, Kazam, Ather, and Statiq to display more than 8,000 charging stations in India.
Additionally, Google has also collaborated with local experts to curate lists of recommended spaces in major cities. Further, you can report various road incidents on the Google Maps app to help other users.
