Google Maps on Android gets real-time commute info

Google announced an update to Google Maps on Android yesterday that brings real-time commute information and more to the company's app.

The new version of Google Maps for Android features a new section at the bottom of the home screen. All you have to do is swipe up to see the new options and interact with them.

The three new options help you beat traffic, catch the next bus or  find nearby restaurants.

If you tap on the new driving tab after swiping down on Google Maps for Android, you will see real-time estimated arrival times to home and work. This works only if you have added home and work addresses to Google Maps though.

The feature includes nearby traffic reports, and will even provide you with information on expected delays on the road that you are taking right now.

Ideally, it may help you find a faster route home or to work if it is available.

The new transit tab works pretty much the same way. It requires that you have entered home and work addresses just like the driving feature.

It highlights when the next bus or trains are coming that you can take if you are headed home or to work, and displays estimated arrival times as well on the screen.

The third and final addition that the update for Google Maps on Android brings is information on nearby restaurants.

It features a curated list of places to eat or drink such as "best dinners" or "business dining", and categories such as breakfast or coffee. It furthermore offers quick access to often used places or services such as ATMs, pharmacies, post offices, gas stations or grocery stores.

The update for Google Maps on Android is rolling out right now. It may take a while before it lands on your device though, as some updates took weeks before they landed on all user devices in the past.

Closing Words

Apart from directions, traffic, transit and places are probably the most commonly used services on Google Maps. Putting them front and center makes a lot of sense, considering that they are now only a tap away in the updated version.

The Maps Play Store page highlights the new features already. You can download Maps - Navigation & Transit by following this link to Google Play.