Google Maps rolling out transit route recommendations, emoji reactions and more

Google Maps new features

Transit route recommendations

• Google Maps has recently introduced updates to enhance its transit directions feature.
• The aim is to simplify navigation and support quick decision-making for users.
• The improvements facilitate easy identification of the best route by considering factors like ETA, number of transfers, and total trip duration.
• Users can now customise their route preferences using filters, enabling them to choose preferred transit modes or routes with minimal walking distances.
• Upcoming transit updates are set to roll out on both Android and iOS platforms in the coming weeks.

Collaborative lists

• Google Maps has also announced a collaborative feature for shared places in its latest update.
• Users can now instantly create a collaborative list when sharing a location with friends, simplifying the planning process.
• Group members can contribute by adding places of interest and expressing preferences through emoji reactions like hearts for must-see spots or thumbs down for places to avoid.
• This new collaborative feature aims to streamline outing planning directly within the Maps app.
• The updated lists feature is scheduled to be globally available on Android and iOS platforms in the upcoming weeks.

Emoji reactions

• Google Maps’s new emoji reactions feature for photos, videos, and reviews has also been announced in its latest update.
• Users can express their sentiments and help the community by reacting with emojis to content they come across.
• The addition of AI and Emoji Kitchen allows for unique mashup reactions, providing a personalised response tailored to the content.
• For example, reacting to a photo of a new pumpkin bagel with a “yum” face will generate a customised emoji mashup.
• Emoji reactions are set to be globally available on both Android and iOS platforms.

Contactless payments

• Google Maps is simplifying public transit payments with its latest update.
• Users can now seamlessly pay for public transit, including multi-leg journeys, directly within the Maps app.
• The feature eliminates the need to carry physical wallets, offering convenience for holiday errands or exploring festive displays.
• Commuters can purchase tickets for various transit modes, such as commuter trains, subways, and buses, through Maps, leveraging the platform’s network of over 250 ticketing partners globally.

In addition to these features, Google Maps users can also make the most of existing functionalities for seamless travel navigation. Electric vehicle owners can conveniently locate charging stations, assess compatibility in real-time, and plan routes efficiently.

The app also allows users to discover essential amenities like grocery stores, rest stops, gas stations, and hotels along their route by utilizing the magnifying glass icon on the top right-hand side. Furthermore, users can access real-time fuel prices at nearby gas stations directly from the Maps application.