Google Maps is the most widely used mapping software in the world, which complements the monopoly that Google is regarding its software. The Maps app is constantly updated and new features are rolled out all the time.
Earlier this month, Google rolled out a new home-screen for Google Map users on Android in India. The company has now added the ability to edit the roads and other places, which is excellent as most of the places in rural and semi-urban parts are in dire need of updates. This feature is available to users of both Android and iOS apps, with windows users left behind as always. It is rumored to replace the Map Maker service that was shut down earlier prior to this. When it comes to customization of maps, there are many great tools out there that build upon the functionality of Google maps and allow you to create your own maps. For example, you could use a heat map tool to highlight certain areas of interest on the map and make your journey completely tailored to your needs.
Google maps, “edit roads”
You won’t be able to access this new feature right away as it is hidden under other options inside the app. Here’s how you can use the feature. We will show you step by step how you can access this feature. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Inside the Google Maps app, open the overlay sidebar.
Step 2: In the side bar, select the ‘Send Feedback’ option.
Step 3: In Android app, users will be able to see five options where they can Edit the map, add a ‘missing place’, report ‘missing road’, send app feedback and report ‘location issues’. In iOS app, users will be able to see three options — report a ‘data problem’, add a ‘missing place’ and send app feedback.
Step 4: On Android, users can select the ‘Edit’ the map option in order to edit the road name or name of a place. For this they have to simply tap on the particular road, followed by the ‘Next’ option. In iOS, editing roads is possible under the ‘Report a data problem’ option. Users can also ‘tap’ on the wrong place or road followed by ‘Next’ to edit it.
Increasing its focus on the huge Indian market, Google few days ago rolled out an important update to its Maps app for Android users. The update brings in a revamped home screen and also some new features and under the hood improvements.
The upgraded Google Maps app now comes with new shortcuts on the home-screen, giving easier access to certain functionalities. The app now loads the homescreen much faster “so that the millions of people in India coming online can discover and share great places, even on spotty connections.” said Cathay Bi, product manager for Google Maps, in a company blog post.
Features that were earlier accessible through the overflow sidebar such as distance and time covered when driving using public transport, walking and hiring a taxi etc. are now on a scrollable card at the bottom of the screen, much resembling iOS than Android. This eliminates the need to swipe from left to right on the screen, which has been the function since ages in Android OS and tap on separate options. Nice change by Google.
