Google Maps now chooses safer routes: “ Less dangerous braking moments ”

Google unveiled several updates tonight of the map service Google Maps. A new position must safer routes plan by avoiding roads where drivers often brake dangerously, or avoiding routes with confusing lane changes or exits. According to Google, these changes prevent “over 100 million problematic braking moments” per year among Maps users.

Google uses both the data from the Maps mobile app and the version on the dashboard screen for its artificial intelligence system Android Auto to identify areas where braking is often dangerous. “These hard braking moments can be a leading indicator of the likelihood of car accidents,” Google said.

For example, Google can determine that drivers on a certain road are affected by glare from the sun at a certain time of day. In this case, Google Maps may opt for alternative routes. “With this update, we’re taking the fastest routes and determining which one is likely to reduce your chances of a sudden braking moment. We will automatically recommend this route if the estimated time of arrival is the same or if the difference is minimal. “

Pedestrian crossings and traffic lights

Google Maps will also receive detailed street maps for 50 new cities by the end of the year. It is not yet known if there are any Dutch cities in between. The road maps in Maps show precise road widths after updating, and they show more detail of sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian islands. This should make it easier for people to find their way.

Google Maps can also show which neighborhoods in the region are visited the most. Crowd information has been available in some locations for a while, but since the update maps may also show it for parts of a neighborhood.