Useful updates to Google Maps for user safety during the pandemic

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People turn to Google Maps for accurate, up-to-date information about what’s happening in the world, especially during a pandemic. Things like picking up a package, going for a walk, or picking up something to buy now require planning and preparation. And when we’re going somewhere, we wonder, “Is there enough space where I’m going to social distance?” or “What safety measures are in place where I’m going?”

As part of the recent Search On event , Google announced new improvements that will help you get the information you need to safely navigate and complete everyday tasks.



Traffic updates help you make informed decisions
The ability to see traffic and peak times on Google Maps has been one of the most popular features since it launched in 2016. During the pandemic, this information has become an essential tool, helping people quickly understand how busy a place will be at certain times, so they can more easily decide where to go and when. As people around the world have south africa number data adjusted to life during the pandemic, they have increasingly started to use information about popular and peak times. According to the company, engagement with these features increased by 50 percent between March and May, as more people clicked, scrolled, and compared data to find the best days and times to visit places and businesses. That’s why Google announced that it intends to increase its global reach fivefold compared to June 2020, and plans to add more data about outdoor spaces like beaches and parks, and important places like grocery stores, gas stations, laundromats, and pharmacies. Traffic information will appear right on the map and when you're planning your route, so you won't even have to search for a specific location to see how busy it is. The feature will soon be available to Android, iOS, and desktop users worldwide.

It’s hard to predict how a business will serve customers during a pandemic. To help people find the latest information about businesses, Google uses Duplex voice technology to call businesses and check their current information on Maps and Search. Since April 2020, this information has powered more than 3 million updates, including changed hours, delivery options, and availability of popular products like face masks and hand sanitizer. To date, these updates have been viewed more than 20 billion times.

Important health and safety information for businesses and establishments is now a focus in Maps and Search. You can quickly see what safety measures a business is taking, like whether customers are required to wear masks and make appointments before visiting, whether staff are regularly checking visitors’ temperatures, and more. This information comes directly from the establishments, but soon Google Maps users will be able to add this helpful information as well.