Google Maps exists 15 years and the company celebrates that with a major update. The most important improvement: you can now always see how fast you are allowed to drive somewhere.
Google Maps speed limit now available
Whoever celebrates their birthday treats and Google Maps also adheres to that unwritten rule. Now that the navigation app has been around for 15 years, the company is releasing its biggest update in a long time. In addition to the introduction of speed limits, there are more improvements. We list them below.
1. Google Maps Speed ​​Limits
The feature was announced in May 2019, but is only now available to everyone. Google Maps now shows the speed limit in the lower left corner of the screen while navigating. The icon changes color if you drive too fast.
While testing the function, the speed turned out to be very accurate, but it is always possible that the app is wrong. So don’t rely entirely on Google Maps, although it is a handy extra for extra security behind the wheel.
2. A new app icon
Google Maps now has a new icon, which fits better with the rest of Google’s apps. The colorful card has disappeared and is replaced by a thumbtack with the colors of Google. In the video above you can see how this new icon was created.
3. Additional tabs and new layout
If you open Google Maps, you will also see that some changes have been made in the app itself. There are now five tabs at the bottom of the screen: Explore, Commute, Saved, Contribute and Updates. The Explore tab is made for discovering nearby places, so you can quickly find a place to have lunch, for example. The Commute section always gives you the fastest route for your daily journey from home to work or your school.
Saved is a place where all your saved places are clearly listed and Contribute puts the contributions of other users more central than ever. You can also follow other Google Maps users there. Finally, the Updates tab gives you a timeline of trending and popular spots recommended by experts. There you can also chat with companies if they support this feature.
4. More improvements on the way
But it doesn’t stop there. Google has already announced what new features are coming soon. This gives you more information about public transport, such as how hot it is in your train or bus, how accessible it is for people with disabilities and whether there is security on board.
This info comes from other travelers. The Live View function is also being improved to better show you where to go with augmented reality without having to look at a map.