Putting Google Maps on a larger screen, like on an Android Auto headunit, makes a lot of sense. The larger display allows you to see your route clearer, which is handy because you don’t want to have to keep squinting at your phone while you’re driving. And now it’s getting better. According to the folks at 9to5Google, they have noticed a new Google Maps update rolling out for Android Auto that better shows upcoming traffic lights and stops.
Google Maps Android Auto update shows you traffic lights more clearly
It’s worth mentioning that Google Maps traffic lights and stop signs aren’t new. However, the problem with the current version is that these icons just sat on the map. They were essentially static images, so they were easy to overlook.
But with this update, the traffic lights and stop signs are tied to your actual route. During navigation, Google Maps shows a floating label with the name of the street at your next turn. That label now also tells you if a traffic light or a stop sign is waiting at that intersection.
It’s not the biggest change we’ve seen, but it’s a nice quality-of-life update. This could be especially useful when driving through an unfamiliar neighborhood. This could prevent you from hitting the brakes suddenly because a stop sign seemingly came out of nowhere.
Spotting Google Maps traffic lights and stop signs at your turn ahead of time makes that a lot less likely. Plus it won’t nag you, either. This isn’t a pop-up alert like a speed trap warning. It only shows on the map as part of your route, so you’ll only need to glance at the screen to see it.
Rolling out as we speak
So, how do you get your hands on this update? Well, according to 9to5Google, this is most likely a server-side update. Since this is a visual update and less about adding or removing or updating existing features, you probably won’t have to update your app specifically for it. We don’t know how long it will take before it reaches everyone, so you’ll just have to remain patient. It should eventually make its way to your device, unless for whatever reason Google decides to pull it.
The post Google Maps Finally Makes Its Traffic Lights and Stop Signs Worth Noticing on Android Auto appeared first on Android Headlines.
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