Google Maps is introducing new features in India using AI to assist drivers in navigating through flyovers and narrow roads in the country with the highest population. These features are designed to help deal with traffic congestion and obstacles found on the roads.
Google announced the development of an AI model specifically tailored for Indian roads, which analyzes road width using satellite imagery and Street View data. The model also takes into account factors like road type, building distance, tree coverage, poles, and drains to guide users away from narrow streets.
Navigational features
When users select the four-wheeler mode or two-wheeler and walking modes on Google Maps, routes avoiding narrow roads will be displayed. Additionally, callouts are included in the navigation to warn users about upcoming narrow sections on the route.
The narrow roads feature is initially available on Android devices in eight cities in India and will be introduced on iOS devices soon.
In addition to avoiding narrow roads, Google Maps now shows flyover callouts to users, allowing them to see upcoming flyovers on their route and make informed decisions before reaching them.
Flyover callouts will be rolled out in 40 cities across India for four-wheeler and two-wheeler navigation on Android devices and Android Auto, with availability on Apple CarPlay coming soon.
Google Maps has also included EV charging stations in India, partnering with providers like ElectricPe, Ather Energy, Kazam, and Statiq to display information about over 8,000 charging stations on the platform.
Furthermore, the ability to book Metro tickets in Kochi and Chennai directly through Google Maps has been introduced via the Namma Yatri integration, with plans to expand to more cities and modes of transport in the future.
Google Maps has updated its interface to make it easier for users to report incidents like crashes, slowdowns, or lane closures, with tappable icons available on Android, iOS, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
