Google debuted a new “two-wheeler” mode for Google Maps on Tuesday as part of its Google India media event in New Delhi. The biker-based feature joins the existing driving, walking, and public transit modes for Google Maps users in India looking for the fastest possible directions to their intended destination.
Image via India Today
The new mode for motorcycle and scooter users shows trip routes that use “shortcuts” not accessible to other vehicles, and provides customized traffic and arrival time estimates.
The two-wheeler mode also shows major landmarks along the planned route to help riders who rely on them for navigation, as is often the case in India.
#LookBeforeYouLeave to get where you need to, faster with directions and voice navigation mode for two-wheeler riders in @googlemaps#GoogleForIndia pic.twitter.com/TkktD4T9s0
— Google India (@GoogleIndia) December 5, 2017
Like offline maps when they first launched, the two-wheeler mode for Google Maps is only available in India to begin with, but Google says the feature will roll out to more countries in the coming months. It’s unclear at present where “two-wheeler” mode will sit in relation to Google Maps’ existing cycling directions, but rider safety, speed, and designated routes are sure to differ.
Tags: Google Maps, India
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