Today at Google I/O, Google announced new Google Maps features which are to be rolled out globally on Android & iOS in the months to come. The new features include a new “Explore” tab, brand-new features around “Your Match”, “Group Planning” and a new ‘’For you’’ section.
Redesigned Explore Tab
The redesigned Explore tab shows searchers who are utilizing Google Maps dining venues, events and activities which are “new and interesting” and “nearby. “Here is a GIF of the “nearby” tab in action:-
Your Match
The new “You match” feature will show you likely you are going to enjoy a place and offer reasons you will be enjoying it. Therefore, when you need to click on a particular place, Google will generate a number based on “what we know about a business, the food and drink preferences you’ve selected in Google Maps, places you’ve been to, and whether you have rated a restaurant or added it to a list.” According to Google all of these use machine learning. Moreover, Google will get smarter with the score over time based on your history.
For you
The “For you” tab enables you to select and follow neighborhoods and dining spots based on what you select, Google will send you ideas for what you to the next time you want to go out.
Augmented reality
Google Maps directions are also getting Augmented Reality to enable users to navigate and find places. Getting out of a subway and into a city street can be really confusing to know which direction to walk, especially if you are new to the neighborhood.