10 New Features in Google Maps Exclusive to India, Driving Will Be Easier and Smarter

Did you know that Google Maps will now make both your driving and traveling easier than ever? Yes, Google has launched 10 new AI-powered features specifically for India, which will help you with safety, route finding, and at every step of your journey. Let's learn about them...

Google has launched 10 new features in Google Maps for its users in India, which, with the help of AI, will make driving and traveling smarter and safer than ever before. The company stated that many of these features have been created specifically for India, while some are launching in India first after the US. The most significant of these features is the hands-free 'Conversational Driving Experience' based on Gemini AI, which allows drivers to get directions, routes, and nearby locations simply by speaking, without touching the screen.
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How will the new 'Conversational Driving Experience' make your driving easier?

With this feature, users can easily inquire about restaurants, EV charging stations, or parking along their route. For example, you could ask, 'Are there any budget-friendly restaurants on my route that offer vegan options?' Users can also ask Google Maps to create a Calendar event for their planned trip. Furthermore, Google has also introduced a feature called Proactive Local Tips, which will provide suggestions for the user's route or destination, such as information about local shops or places to visit.

How will Google Maps' new alerts improve your safety?

Several major changes have been made to Google Maps for safety purposes. The app will now provide users with Accident-Prone Area Alerts, meaning they will receive alerts before reaching areas where accidents frequently occur. This feature will currently be rolled out in Gurugram, Cyberabad, Chandigarh, and Faridabad. Authoritative Speed Limits will also be displayed, allowing users to stay informed of the government-imposed speed limits on each road. This feature will soon be available in nine cities: Ghaziabad, Noida, Gurugram, Jaipur, Faridabad, Lucknow, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. Google has also partnered with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to provide real-time information about road closures and repairs on the app.

Which new features will make travel and navigation even smarter?

Several new options have also been added to enhance the travel experience. Users will now be able to book Metro tickets directly from Google Maps. This feature is currently available in Delhi, Bengaluru, Kochi, and Chennai, and will soon be available in Mumbai. Tickets can be saved directly to Google Wallet. Additionally, voice guidance is being added to the flyover navigation feature, available in nine Indian languages, eliminating the need for users to look at the screen. Two-wheeler users have been given a special, customizable two-wheeler avatar feature, allowing them to change the color and design of their bike icon to their liking. These features will be gradually rolled out to all users over the next few weeks.