Google is expanding its AI capabilities across all its services, including Maps. During I/O 2024, the tech giant announced several new features, including AI-powered geospatial AR content that will help users navigate and explore places more easily. Further expanding this AI suite, Google on Thursday announced new AI-powered features for Maps specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by Google Maps users in India.

Google has introduced six new features for Maps, including better navigation for narrow roads, flyover callouts, lists to explore new places and more. Google said it has mapped more than 7 million kilometers of Indian roads, 300 million buildings and 35 million businesses and places across India to provide more accurate navigation to users. These new features are designed to improve the user experience with the help of local partners and AI power.

Better navigation for four wheelers

Google has highlighted that navigating narrow roads can be particularly challenging for four-wheeler drivers in India. To aid these users, Google is introducing a new narrow road feature that will help drivers avoid narrow roads. In this feature, Google Maps will leverage the capabilities of an AI model developed specifically for Indian roads. This model estimates road width by analysing satellite imagery, Street View data, and multiple cues including road types and distances between buildings, allowing the app to suggest alternate routes to avoid narrow roads. If navigating a narrow road is unavoidable, users will receive alerts to proceed cautiously. Google says this new narrow road feature is designed to reduce stress for drivers and improve safety for bikers and pedestrians

Flyover Alert

Another problem Google has highlighted for Indian users is confusion around flyovers. Many users face problems while navigating flyovers, especially in unfamiliar locations. To help users deal with these confusions, Google Maps will now provide callouts for flyovers on recommended routes, helping drivers anticipate upcoming flyovers and prepare for them. The feature will be available for both four-wheelers and two-wheelers in 40 cities across India.

EV Charging Station Information

India is witnessing a rise in the number of electric vehicles, both four-wheelers and two-wheelers. To help these EV vehicles find the nearest charging station, Google Maps will now show detailed information about EV charging stations in India. Google has partnered with local providers like ElectricPe, Ather, Kazam and Statiq. Once the feature goes live, users will be able to find real-time availability, plug type and other essential details including support for two-wheeler EVs.

Metro Ticket Booking

Google is also offering metro ticket booking in Indian cities in collaboration with ONDC and Namma Yatri, starting with Kochi and Chennai. Users will now be able to book and pay for tickets directly through the app, eliminating the need to queue up at stations.

incident reporting

Google is also making it easier for users to report incidents. It will now allow users to report construction or traffic accidents with a few taps and confirm reports from others, increasing the credibility of this user-generated information. This update is available on all platforms including Android, iOS, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.

Curated Lists

To help users find the best places to visit, eat and explore, Google Maps will now offer curated lists of popular places from local experts and the Google Maps community. Users will be able to easily create, share and collaborate on lists of favourite places, making it easier to plan trips and outings. These lists provide recommendations for various cities and tourist destinations in India, helping users find the best places to visit, eat and explore.