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Tag: maps

  • Gucci’s Rebranding Challenge: Kering CEO Maps Out Strategy for Sophisticated Chinese Luxury Market

    Gucci’s Rebranding Challenge: Kering CEO Maps Out Strategy for Sophisticated Chinese Luxury Market

    Kering’s flagship brand, Gucci, is focusing on rebuilding its market position in China following years of stagnation. The luxury company’s complacency resulted in an underwhelming retail experience and poorly situated stores, according to Kering CEO Luca de Meo.

    China: A Changed Landscape

    China has been a significant growth driver for the global luxury sector, worth approximately US$400 billion, for over a decade. Gucci, like many of its competitors, capitalized on this expanding market. However, the brand failed to take advantage of a brief shopping surge following the pandemic and couldn’t recover when Chinese consumer spending slowed.

    De Meo, speaking at Kering’s first investor day since he assumed his role in September, expressed that Gucci needs to reevaluate its strategy in China. He emphasized the necessity to cater to the discerning clientele with high-quality retail experiences and to move away from relying on off-price outlets offering goods at discounted rates.

    “Gucci needs a comeback,” de Meo asserted, criticizing the brand’s previous approach to China as an easy revenue source.

    The Evolving Chinese Consumer

    The retail landscape in China has transformed significantly over the years. De Meo noted that Chinese consumers are now motivated by quality, design, and experience rather than logo-driven purchases, a trend seen in markets like Japan, South Korea, and Europe.

    The CEO stressed the importance of a consistent brand message and an enhanced in-store experience to revive growth in China. Kering also revealed plans to acquire a minority stake in the Shanghai-based Icicle Fashion Group.

    Learning from the Auto Industry

    De Meo, who previously served as CEO of Renault, drew parallels between the luxury sector and the auto industry. He warned luxury brands not to underestimate domestic competition and acknowledged China’s innovative capabilities.

    Other brands in Kering’s luxury portfolio, such as Bottega Veneta and Saint Laurent, have already begun reaping the benefits of a more finely-tuned China strategy. However, he indicated that Gucci’s recovery would be a more prolonged process.

    “For Gucci, the verdict is still out. This transformation won’t be instantaneous, but we anticipate seeing measurable progress within the next few months to a year,” he stated.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Kering’s plan for Gucci in China?
    Kering plans to reinvent Gucci in China by focusing on higher quality retail experiences and catering to discerning clientele. The company is moving away from off-price outlets and is focusing on a consistent brand message and enhanced in-store experience.

    How has consumer behavior changed in China’s luxury market?
    Chinese consumers are now motivated by quality, design, and experience rather than logo-driven purchases. This shift mirrors trends seen in other markets such as Japan, South Korea, and Europe.

    How long will Gucci’s recovery take according to Kering’s CEO?
    Kering’s CEO, Luca de Meo, anticipates that Gucci’s recovery in China will be a prolonged process, with measurable progress expected within the next few months to a year.

  • Embrace the Modern: Google Maps Unveils Fresh Icon Design on Android and iOS

    Embrace the Modern: Google Maps Unveils Fresh Icon Design on Android and iOS

    Google Maps, one of Google’s most popular apps and a fixture on the first-generation iPhone, has undergone another update. In its pursuit of continual improvement, Google has added new features and refined the app’s user interface over the years. Now, the tech giant has updated the Maps app icon for both Android and iOS versions.

    A Modern Look for Google Maps

    The new icon continues to feature the recognizable “pin” symbol, but its design has been significantly modified. The most prominent change is the color gradient that seamlessly transitions from one shade to another. This is a departure from the previous icon, which showed a diagonally placed “pin” with separate, differently colored boxes (blue, green, yellow, and red). The revamped “pin” is also larger, with the circle within it having increased in size. Consequently, the top ring of the pin has become much thinner.

    If you recall the Google Maps icon on the first iPhone, it depicted two intersecting lines, representing roads, with a red pin and a sign for Highway 280. Subsequently, the icon evolved into a folded map featuring blue, green, yellow, and white blocks, with a red pin to the right and a lowercase “g” in the upper left corner. The Android version of the app icon was similar but replaced the “g” with a capital letter.

    New Icon for Google Maps on iOS or Android

    The new icon should be visible in version 26.09.06.873668274 of Google Maps for Android users and version 26.09.5 for iOS users. If you are yet to see the new design, you may need to update your Google Maps app.

    For Android users, this can be done by opening Google Play Store, tapping on the profile icon in the right corner, selecting “Manage apps & device”, and viewing “details”. You can then scroll down to find Google Maps, and if an update is available, tap on “Update”.

    For iOS users, the process involves opening the App Store, tapping on the profile icon in the right corner, selecting “Updates”, and scrolling down to find Google Maps. If there is an update available, tap on the “Update” button.

    After the update, the new Google Maps icon should be visible on your phone, signifying a more modern-looking Google Maps.

    A Brief History of Google Maps

    For many, Google Maps has been an essential tool since its inception. I first used the app in 2007 on my iPhone. In 2009, I experienced Google Maps with turn-by-turn directions on the Motorola Droid, the first phone equipped with Android 2.0. It felt revolutionary at the time and was one of the key selling points for the Droid and other Android phones. It wasn’t until December 2012 that this feature was finally added to the iPhone.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the most notable change in the new Google Maps icon?
    The new icon features a color gradient, transitioning smoothly from one shade to another. This replaces the previous design of separate, differently colored boxes. The “pin” is also larger, with an enlarged circle inside it, making the top ring of the pin thinner.

    How can I update the Google Maps app to see the new icon?
    For both Android and iOS users, you may need to update the app through Google Play or the App Store. If an update is available, select “Update” and the new icon should appear once the update is complete.

    When was turn-by-turn navigation first introduced in Google Maps?
    Turn-by-turn navigation was first introduced on the Motorola Droid in 2009, which operated on Android 2.0. This feature was later added to the iPhone version of the app in December 2012.

  • Revolutionizing Navigation: Google Maps iOS Update Autonomously Saves Your Parking Spot

    Revolutionizing Navigation: Google Maps iOS Update Autonomously Saves Your Parking Spot

    Google Maps has introduced a new feature for iOS users: the ability to automatically detect and save a user’s parking location. This function eliminates the need for manual input, which was previously required on both mobile devices and Android Auto. The updated system now allows the app to identify when your car has been parked and saves the location accordingly. When you return to your vehicle and begin driving, the app will erase the saved location.

    Feature Availability

    As of now, this feature is exclusively available for iOS users and operates when your phone is connected to your vehicle and Google Maps. The connection can be established via Bluetooth, USB, or CarPlay. The saved parking location will remain on the app for 48 hours unless manually removed or if the car is driven.

    Personalized Parking Icons

    Google Maps’ Senior Product Manager Rio Akasaka disclosed the news on LinkedIn, though Google has not officially announced the feature. Additionally, Akasaka revealed an add-on to the feature: Google Maps will use your customized car icon to mark your parking location in the app. If you do not use a custom car icon, the default “P” icon will be used.

    As of yet, there has been no information released regarding when or if the feature will be available on the Android platform. The delay in introducing this function to Google Maps is surprising, given that similar features have long been available on other navigation apps like Waze and Apple Maps.

    A Timely Update

    Even though I’ve never experienced parking confusion quite as catastrophic as in the movie ‘Dude, Where’s My Car?’, I’ve had my fair share of difficulty locating my vehicle. This straightforward feature is a simple solution that could have been incorporated into the app sooner. However, its overdue arrival is still appreciated.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new Google Maps feature for iOS users?
    Google Maps can now automatically detect and save a user’s parking location without requiring manual input.

    How does Google Maps connect with the car to use this feature?
    The connection between the vehicle and Google Maps can be established via Bluetooth, USB, or CarPlay.

    How is the parking location marked in the app?
    Google Maps will either use a user’s customized car icon or, in the absence of a personalized icon, the default “P” icon to mark the parking location.

  • Revolutionize Your Navigation: Unveiling Google Maps’ New Gemini Features

    Revolutionize Your Navigation: Unveiling Google Maps’ New Gemini Features

    Google has recently introduced Gemini, a feature set to enhance the functionality and user experience of Google Maps. Users can identify if they have received the update by noticing a change in the microphone icon in the search bar at the top of the display. If it appears as a microphone, the Gemini update has not yet taken effect. However, if users see a blue sparkle icon within a circle, they now have access to the new Gemini capabilities.

    Gemini is replacing Google Assistant on Google Maps and is compatible with all forms of navigation available on the app, including driving, public transportation, cycling, and walking. Users can activate Gemini by uttering “Hey Google”.

    Gemini’s Features

    Gemini offers a range of features that can improve the functionality of Google Maps. Here are some examples:

    1. Basic navigation controls: Users can instruct Google Maps to “Navigate home”, “Stop navigating”, “Add stop”, “Mute guidance”, “Avoid tolls”, and “Show alternative routes”.

    2. Basic route answers: Users can ask for information about their route, such as “What’s my next turn?”, “When will I arrive?”, “What’s the weather like at my destination?”, and “What’s my next stop?”.

    3. Reporting issues: Gemini also allows users to submit reports about their route. For example, they can report “There’s traffic on the road”, “There’s construction up ahead”, and “There’s a car breakdown that’s causing congestion”.

    4. Search and get information about places: Additionally, Gemini can perform searches along the user’s route, find places near the user or their destination, refine search results, and add stops. For instance, users can request “Find me a cafe near my destination that serves tiramisu”.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Gemini on Google Maps?
    Gemini is a new feature introduced by Google to enhance the functionality of its Maps app. It is set to replace Google Assistant and offers a range of features like basic navigation controls, route information, reporting issues, and more.

    How can users tell if they have received the Gemini update?
    Users can identify if they have received the Gemini update by noticing a change in the microphone icon in the search bar at the top of the display. If they see a blue sparkle icon within a circle, they now have access to Gemini capabilities.

    How can users activate Gemini on Google Maps?
    Users can activate Gemini by uttering “Hey Google”. This will allow them to access all of Gemini’s features, including new navigation controls, route information, and more.

  • Navigate Your Holidays with Ease: Google Maps Unveils Four Exciting New Features

    Navigate Your Holidays with Ease: Google Maps Unveils Four Exciting New Features

    During the holiday period, traveling often becomes a necessity for many Americans, whether it’s by plane, train, or car. It’s a time synonymous with family gatherings, making it the ideal opportunity for Google to unveil some new updates for Google Maps. The company is rolling out four enhancements, all aimed at making your journey smoother and more informed.

    Pre-Travel Tips On Google Maps

    One of the significant updates is the addition of a feature dubbed “Things you should know before you go.” Google is incorporating AI capabilities into its applications, and Google Maps is no exception. When seeking directions to restaurants, hotels, or concert venues, scrolling down will provide users with key tips about the location. This is akin to having an expert guide providing you with insider knowledge.

    This feature utilizes reviews and other relevant information to provide essential tips – from how to make a reservation, to revealing secret menu items, and even providing parking advice to make your arrival hassle-free. Each tip can be tapped on for more details. The feature is currently rolling out for Google Maps on iOS and Android, with some users already reporting its presence on their devices.

    Enhanced Explore Tab in Google Maps

    Google is also revamping the Explore tab in Google Maps. A simple upward swipe in the Explore tab will now uncover trending dining spots, entertainment venues, and other points of interest. The feature is also designed to help users discover curated lists from trusted sources as well as local influencers. This update will be available on both iOS and Android devices within the month.

    AI-Powered EV Charger Availability

    For those driving electric vehicles (EV), Google Maps can already assist in locating an available charging station. However, the challenge lies in whether the port will still be available upon arrival. To overcome this, Google is using AI to analyze historical and real-time availability to predict how many chargers are likely to be free at your chosen charging station. This feature, accessible through a simple “EV chargers” search in Google Maps, will save users precious time and is set to roll out next week.

    Anonymous Reviews

    Lastly, Google is offering users the option to leave reviews using a pseudonym and a new profile picture tied to their reviews. This means users can share their experiences and recommendations without using their real names, providing a more comfortable way to leave feedback. Google assures that its built-in monitoring system remains in place to guard against fake and suspicious reviews. This feature will be available globally later this month on Android, iOS, and desktop.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new feature in Google Maps called “Things you should know before you go”?
    This is a new feature that provides users with key information and tips about a location before their visit. It utilizes AI to generate this advice based on reviews and other relevant data.

    How is Google improving the Explore tab in Google Maps?
    Google is revamping the Explore tab to include trending dining spots, entertainment venues, and other points of interest. It will also showcase curated lists from trusted sources and local influencers.

    How is Google using AI to improve EV charger availability on Google Maps?
    Google is using AI to analyze historical and real-time availability data to predict how many chargers will likely be free at a chosen charging station. This feature helps users avoid wasted trips to occupied charging stations.

  • Apple Maps May Integrate Paid Advertisements: Implications And User Reactions

    Apple Maps May Integrate Paid Advertisements: Implications And User Reactions

    Recent reports suggest that Apple is considering the integration of paid advertisements within the Apple Maps application. Businesses would be able to pay for more visible placement in search results, potentially from as early as next year.

    Apple Maps and Advertising

    Apple’s ecosystem, previously thought to be a safe haven from direct advertising, may soon see a shift. The tech giant is reportedly making progress on its plan to introduce paid advertisements to Apple Maps. However, this move is not about intrusive pop-up banners; instead, businesses such as shops and restaurants would pay to have their listings highlighted when users conduct searches within the app. This concept closely mirrors the Search Ads seen in the App Store, where app developers pay for top placement in search results.

    The Implications

    It’s well-known that Google has been using this advertising approach for some time in Google Maps. Searches often result in “Sponsored” pins appearing at the top of the list. However, Apple’s brand identity isn’t typically associated with advertising. Instead, it’s known for selling premium, high-cost hardware and being a privacy-focused, user-centric alternative.

    If Apple were to start integrating third-party advertisements into a core feature like Maps, it could invite significant backlash. Customers are already expressing annoyance at the constant upselling of Apple’s own services, such as Apple TV+ and AppleCare+, especially on devices they have paid a premium for. The addition of advertisements could be perceived as a money-making move that detracts from the premium experience.

    A Personal Perspective

    While this move may seem inevitable to some, it doesn’t make it any less disappointing to others. Many users appreciate Apple Maps for its simple and user-friendly interface, uncluttered by constant advertisements. Google Maps, while powerful and accurate, often frustrates users with its persistent advertising presence.

    Even though sources suggest that Apple’s advertising approach will be “better” and use artificial intelligence to deliver “relevant” ads, an ad is still an ad—it can distract users from their primary objective of getting from point A to point B.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the potential implications of Apple integrating paid advertisements into Apple Maps?
    This move could face backlash from users who chose Apple for its premium, ad-free experience. The integration of paid advertisements could be perceived as a commercial maneuver that undermines Apple’s user-centric ethos.

    How will the paid advertisements work on Apple Maps?
    Businesses, such as shops and restaurants, would be able to pay for their listings to appear more prominently in search results within the app.

    Why are some users disappointed with this potential change?
    Many users appreciate Apple Maps for its clean, user-friendly interface without the presence of advertisements. With the introduction of ads, users might feel that the primary function of the app—navigation—is being overshadowed.

  • Google Maps’ New Landmark Integration: A Step Forward, Yet ‘open Now’ Filter Lacks On Active Routes

    Google Maps’ New Landmark Integration: A Step Forward, Yet ‘open Now’ Filter Lacks On Active Routes

    Google Maps, the popular navigational app, continues to evolve, recently following the lead of Apple Maps by integrating landmarks such as traffic lights and stop signals into its directional commands. Previously only providing distance-based directions like “turn left in a quarter of a mile,” the app now incorporates more specific and intuitive landmarks. For example, it may instruct users to “make a left turn at the next stop sign or the second traffic light.”

    Serving Beyond Navigation

    Google Maps proves useful beyond mere navigation. Once users reach their destination, the app can assist in locating amenities like restaurants, accommodations, entertainment venues, gas stations and more. However, not all of its features have been well received. Recently, some Reddit users voiced their annoyance with a particular search filter in Google Maps.

    Currently, the app offers a “Open now” filter when users search for specific places like “UPS near me.” This convenient feature allows users to see only results for locations that are currently open. But, the problem arises when users are already on an active route and want to add a stop. In these instances, there is no way to access and apply the “Open now” filter.

    Driving to Closed Locations

    Imagine this scenario: You’re driving and suddenly realize you could use a coffee pick-me-up. You recall a coffee shop en route to your destination and decide to add it as a stop, even though it may extend your travel time slightly. Upon arrival, you find the shop dark and the doors locked. The sign in the window tells you it closed an hour ago, well before you added the address to your app.

    The challenge lies in the fact that while a search result in Google Maps typically displays the hours of operation, this crucial information can be easily overlooked or blurred by the pressure of real-time navigation. As a result, users may find themselves unknowingly navigating to closed locations.

    Questions & Answers

    Why is the “Open now” filter feature not available while on an active route in Google Maps?
    As it stands, Google Maps does not currently offer the feature to filter for locations that are “Open now” while the user is on an active route. This limitation could be due to technical challenges or simply an oversight in user experience design.

    What happens when you add a stop to your active route in Google Maps?
    When you add a stop to your active route in Google Maps, the app updates your route to include the new destination. However, it does not currently provide you with the option to filter for locations that are “Open now.”

    What is the potential solution to this issue?
    A possible solution to this problem could be for Google Maps to make the “Open now” filter available and activated by default when users are on an active route. This would prevent users from inadvertently driving to closed locations and improve overall user experience.

  • Google Maps will add this feature from Waze to make driving more colorful and fun

    Google Maps will add this feature from Waze to make driving more colorful and fun

    When Google bought Waze for $1.3 billion in 2013, it was obvious that it would move some of Waze’s crowdsourcing features to Google Maps. Over the years, Google has added many Waze-like features such as the ability to quickly report a crash, a slowdown, police activity, construction, a lane closure, a stalled vehicle, an object on the road, a flooded road, low visibility, and an unplowed road. All of these hazards can be reported in seconds.

    Now, Google Maps is adding another feature associated with Waze. The former will be adding new car icons to replace the blue arrow and other icons that can be used to represent your car on the navigation map. You can make this change on your iOS or Android-powered handset by pulling up the the menu from the handle near the bottom of the screen that shows how much time is left on your drive, the mileage remaining on your journey, and the estimated time of arrival. Grab the handle, swipe up and you’ll see a menu with several options.
    The next to last option reads Vehicle icon. Tap on it and you can select from the traditional arrow icon, a sports car, a pickup truck, an SUV, a sedan, and more for a total of eight icons. Just swipe through them to sell all of your choices. There are eight color options including:
     

    • Glacier white
    • Night black
    • Ash gray
    • Poppy red
    • Sky blue
    • Sunny yellow
    • Aqua green
    • Sunset magenta

    Another way to change your icon is to tap on the default vehicle icon that appears once you set your destination and start navigation. You must have the most up-to-date version of Google Maps on your iOS or Android-powered device to get this feature. One way to do this would be to tap on this link and install the latest version of Google Maps for iOS on your iPhone. If you own an Android device, press this link to install the latest Google Maps build on your Android phone.< Everything about the new car icons, from the way they look to the UI used to select your car and the color that you want the vehicle to be, looks like it just stepped right out of the Waze app. Google Maps and Waze have two separate functions. The former is for those who not only want to navigate quickly and safely from "A" to "B," but also want recommendations on where to dine, where to spend the night, where to find local entertainment, and more. Waze is more about the actual journey and using crowdsourced information that makes the drive easier to make.

  • Google Maps and Apple Maps have different names for the same body of water

    Google Maps and Apple Maps have different names for the same body of water

    In case you haven’t noticed it yet, the Gulf of Mexico today has been officially renamed the Gulf of America in the U.S. on Google Maps. We first told you about the change at the end of last month, and now that the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) has made the revision, it was time for Google to do likewise. In some countries, Google Maps will show two names, with the Gulf of Mexico as the primary name and the Gulf of America in parenthesis.

    Apple, on the other hand, continues to refer to the body of water as the Gulf of Mexico. We haven’t seen Google Maps and Apple Maps call the same geographic area by different names since Apple Maps was released in September 2012 alongside the launch of iOS 6. Apple Maps had so many problems with some countries and streets mislabeled or missing. In Australia, Apple Maps was considered dangerous after it led some drivers to the Outback teeming with poisonous snakes, a temperature of 115 degree, and a lack of cell service.

    We don’t consider Apple’s decision not to follow Google Maps to be a conscious effort to ignore President Trump’s executive order. After all, tech firms seem more willing to get behind the president during this term. For some, like Google, it’s a matter of self-preservation. As recently as last September, then-candidate Trump threatened to prosecute Google for Election Interference if returned to the White House.

    Trump complained that Google Search was showing only negative stories about him while listing only positive stories about his opponent, then-Vice President Kamala Harris. You might recall that in 2018, during his first term, Google was accused by the president of “rigging” search results, so when users searched for “Trump news,” 96% of the results came from the “National Left-Wing Media” according to Trump.

    Besides Google, other tech companies that have shown support for President Trump in some manner include Amazon, Meta, and Apple. All three of these firms or their CEOs donated $1 million toward the president’s inauguration. Most tech companies learned during Trump’s first term that you kill more flies with honey. All four tech companies, Apple and Google particularly, might need help from Trump to avoid being prosecuted by the Justice Department for anti-trust violations.

    So, if all it takes for Google to get on the president’s good side is to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America on the U.S. version of Google Maps, that’s a small price for the company to pay. Also expected to get a name refresh soon is the Denali mountain in Alaska; the president has ordered that the mountain be called by its original name, “Mount McKinley.”

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  • Google Maps for iOS has a new customizable design change

    Google Maps for iOS has a new customizable design change

    The Google Maps app has always been a useful and important tool. Over the years Google has made it better by adding new features that not only help you get from point “A” to point “B” quickly and safely but also tell you where to dine when you arrive at “B,”or where to spend the night. You’ll also learn which landmarks to visit and see, where you can find entertainment, and a whole lot more. The beauty is that all of this is available from one app.

    Google lately has been making some design changes to Google Maps even going as far as to change some of the color themes from blue to teal for buttons and tabs near the bottom of the display. The company has also offered Google Maps users a chance to switch from the iconic blue arrow representing your ride to a red car, a yellow SUV, and a green pickup truck. But after four years, users probably wanted more customization.

    Google will now allow Maps users to choose an SUV, a sedan, an off-road truck, a sports car, and a compact hatchback. Each one has eight color options:

    • Glacier white
    • Night black
    • Ash gray
    • Poppy red
    • Sky blue
    • Sunny yellow
    • Aqua green
    • Sunset magenta

    To customize your vehicle, tap the current icon used to represent your vehicle and you can select which car or truck you want to use on Google Maps by scrolling to the left with the vehicle you want to select ending up in the circle/spotlight. The color options are underneath the vehicles. After you’ve customized the vehicle on Google Maps, tap on the blue “Done” button to save your design. While the three older vehicle icons are still available, they don’t offer the color customizations that the new ones do.

    We should also point out that this new feature is only available on the iOS version of Google Maps for now. Since Google has tried to keep features on both the iOS and Android versions of the app the same, you can pretty much bet that the Android version of Google Maps will eventually offer the same customizable option. The feature is already available on my iPhone 15 Pro Max running iOS 18.2 beta 3.

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  • Exciting Google Maps update adds new useful features

    Google is adding some exciting new features to the iOS and Android Google Maps app. Let’s say you’re looking for a winter sweater for the holiday season. Type winter sweater into the search bar at the top of the screen and you’ll see locations where you can purchase them. Starting today, this will work with home goods, electronics, and clothing. The information about where you can find, say, winter sweaters, shows stores that sell the item, ratings, the hours that the store is open, and how far it is away from you. You’ll also learn if the item is in stock.

    The update will also help travelers during the fall and winter by providing real-time updates on delays due to flooded roads and unplowed snow. With this feature, Google Maps users will be able to look for such issues and will be able to report such conditions. In addition, commuters and others will be able to report delays happening on bus or train routes to help riders stay up to date on any delays that would impact their travel.

    “Sometimes driving in unfamiliar areas with multiple lanes, forks, and exits can be confusing. To help you anticipate these, our enhanced navigation will show you lanes, crosswalks, and road signs clearly on the map. And because no one likes finding out they need to merge at the last minute, we’ll show you exactly which lane you should be in: Just follow the blue line in the lane markers while navigating.”-Google.

    Gemini is getting integrated with Google Maps. Why not? AI is everywhere and if you need some ideas on late-night activities for a guest staying over, simply ask Google Maps to look up “things to do with friends at night.” Gemini will send you some ideas along with reviews. Google has trusted data on 250 million places around the world along with info from the Maps community. Taking advantage of this data can help you enjoy a night out with a visiting friend.

    Google Maps is also making it easier to plan your drive before you even hit the road. Get directions to your destination, hit “add stops” and you will see top landmarks, attractions, and scenic spots to stop at along the way. And to make things even better, you can see dining options in advance.

    Another update will light up the destination on your screen along with an entrance into the building you’re traveling to. You’ll also be shown nearby parking lots and reminded to save your parking so that you won’t forget where you left your car. Once you’ve parked your car you can get walking directions to the entrance of your destination building by using Street View or AR walking navigation.

    Finally, Immersive View is getting an update. This feature uses AI to show you what navigation on certain routes, parks, and stadiums looks like at different times of day using AI, imagery, and computer vision. The weather expected on the day you are planning to visit will be taken into account. Immersive View is now available for 150 cities globally including Brussels, Kyoto, and Frankfurt. And college campuses are being added as well. Immersive View will now tell you where to park and when to expect a complex turn while you’re driving.

  • Google Maps rolls out redesigned pins and new colors

    Google Maps rolls out redesigned pins and new colors

    Last week, Google Maps rolled out a simplified bottom bar on mobile. Now, we’re getting an update that brings new pin colors and shapes.

    The iconic pin shape with a sharper point at the bottom is now gone. However, it’s still in the app icon. Instead of it, with this new update, we’re getting something shorter and more rounded with a white background. The icon that shows the category is housed in an inner circle. This matches the existing icon design for starts, flags, and hearts.

    Most pins have remained the same while some have changed. For example, the one for museums is now purple instead of teal. Other color tweaks with the update are more subtle like the zoo icon going lighter. The change is also applied to text.

    The new pin design makes the icons smaller which might allow Google to show more per map view. This server-side update is now rolling out for Android, iOS, and the web version.

    I like the new design for the pins as it really does seem to allow for a more simple map, and can fit more information in it. The smaller pins give a cleaner look, and I’m all for that.

  • Google Maps and Search expand wildfire tracking to 15 countries

    Google Maps and Search expand wildfire tracking to 15 countries

    Google Maps and Search are expanding their wildfire tracking features to 15 new countries across Europe and Africa, bringing the total to 22 countries where users can access this potentially life-saving information. This update comes after the successful implementation of wildfire boundaries and information in regions like the US, Canada, Mexico, and Australia.

    The newly added countries include popular tourist destinations and regions prone to wildfires:

    • Andorra
    • Bosnia & Herzegovina
    • Croatia
    • Cyprus
    • France
    • Greece
    • Italy
    • Kenya
    • Monaco
    • Montenegro
    • Portugal
    • Rwanda
    • Slovenia
    • Spain
    • Turkey
    Google’s AI-powered wildfire tracking has already proven its worth by mapping over 40 wildfires in Southern Europe this summer. By providing wildfire boundaries and information in Search and Maps, as well as sending out notifications, Google aims to complement existing on-the-ground efforts to help people access crucial information and stay safe during wildfire events.
    In just the first week of July, an estimated 1.4 million people utilized Google’s wildfire information, demonstrating the significant impact this feature can have in regions experiencing wildfires. Users in affected areas can receive alerts through notifications on their phones, as well as while using driving directions in Google Maps.

    This expansion of Google’s wildfire tracking features is a welcome development, providing valuable information to a wider range of users and potentially contributing to greater safety and awareness during wildfire events. By leveraging AI and existing infrastructure, Google continues to demonstrate its commitment to utilizing technology for the greater good.

    The inclusion of Kenya and Rwanda in the list of countries with wildfire tracking is particularly noteworthy, as these regions often face unique challenges in terms of wildfire management and access to information. By expanding its wildfire tracking capabilities to these countries, Google is helping to address a critical need and potentially saving lives.

    Furthermore, the ability to access wildfire information through Google Maps and Search can be especially beneficial for travelers, as it allows them to stay informed and plan their routes accordingly. By providing real-time updates on wildfire locations and boundaries, Google can help travelers avoid dangerous areas and make informed decisions about their itineraries.

    Overall, Google’s expansion of wildfire tracking features is a significant step forward in the fight against wildfires. By providing accessible and up-to-date information to a wider audience, Google is empowering people to stay safe and protect their communities.

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  • Google Maps rolls out alerts for issues impacting accessibility

    Google Maps rolls out alerts for issues impacting accessibility

    Google Maps has just introduced an accessibility alert feature that will alert users of outages at public transit stations that could make it more difficult for those with disabilities to access these locations. The update is available on iOS, Android, and desktop devices. Initially, it’s rolling out in New York, Paris, Seattle, Boston, Budapest, and Brisbane.

    The alert feature will inform users of issues such as broken elevators, which could make it difficult for people in wheelchairs to access certain platforms. This information can be particularly useful for those who rely on accessible routes and want to plan their trips accordingly. For example, those who use wheelchairs, have strollers, or are carrying heavy luggage can use this information to avoid stairs.

    The update aims to enhance the inclusivity and usability of Google Maps by providing users with information about accessibility issues at transit stations before they arrive. It empowers users to make informed decisions about their routes and avoid unexpected obstacles.

    To access the accessibility alerts on Google Maps, users first need to activate the “wheelchair accessible routes” option. This can be done by following these steps:

    • Enter your desired destination in Google Maps.
    • Tap the three dots located in the upper-right corner of the app, next to the starting location.
    • Select “Options.”
    • Tap on “Wheelchair accessible.”
    Once this option is enabled, users will see alerts next to any route options that might have accessibility issues. Clicking on an alert will reveal more information about the specific issue. For example, users might see a notification about an elevator outage at a particular station.

    As technology continues to evolve, it is essential to ensure that it caters to the needs of all individuals. By integrating accessibility features into its platforms, Google is setting a positive example for the industry and working towards a future where technology truly benefits everyone, regardless of their abilities.

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  • One new change to Apple Maps in iOS 18 is panned by some users

    One new change to Apple Maps in iOS 18 is panned by some users

    If you’ve rolled the dice and decided to install the iOS 18 Public Beta release on your eligible iPhone device, you might have noticed something other than a drop-off in your battery life and some of the new features that we have written about. Apple Maps has been changed, and not all users are thrilled with it. In iOS 18, some businesses, restaurants, and stores have larger fonts and icons, helping them stand out on the map. Colored fonts are employed to make these places stand out.
    According to Apple Maps users on Reddit, some of these locations were described as “suggested” or “sponsored” places. Apple is essentially highlighting these locations, which stand out compared to street names and other places printed in smaller gray and black fonts. This appears to be a way for Apple to monetize the Maps app, and users are not happy with what they see as advertisements being placed all over the map.
    Not all Apple Maps users agree with that assessment and state that Apple is making these businesses stand out on Maps to help users more quickly and easily find where they are on the map and where to turn. While it sounds as though some of these users might have had a sip of the Cupertino Kool Aid, there might be some truth to this. Business owners on Reddit whose stores are highlighted on Apple Maps say that they are not paying any money to Apple.
    “I’ve seen threads where people talk to business owners who are showing up like this on Apple Maps. The businesses claim they are not paying for this, it is not a monetization effort or ads. Here is what this actually is: for easier navigation. You can notice signs for those things and know where you are and where to turn. If you actually start navigating somewhere, these will no longer cover up the road or intersections on the map.”-Reddit user StillChillBuster
    Apple Maps wouldn’t seem to require using business locations to help users navigate since the app already does a great job of using stop signs and traffic lights as landmarks to tell you when to make a turn. Still, for those who don’t listen to the spoken turn-by-turn directions on Apple Maps, using certain businesses as landmarks would make sense. For example, knowing that you make a right at Starbucks might prevent you from missing the turn.
    No iPhone user is going to install the iOS 18 Public Beta just for this change to Apple Maps. However, the pre-release version of iOS 18 will allow you to customize your Hone Screen app icons, schedule messages to be sent at certain times, open any app from your Lock Screen, and more.
    As for Apple Maps, iOS 18 will eventually add hiking and custom walking maps that can be used at U.S. national parks. The app will also start showing topographic maps revealing the terrain of certain areas.
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