Google Maps has just acquired a new augmented reality feature to make it easier to find things around you.
At least in some major cities to start with.
Live View boosts search
For some time now, one of Google’s main goals has been to make its Maps mapping app more immersive. This is where Live View, an augmented reality feature, has come in for several years. Today, the latter is improving through a tool called “search with Live View”.
Starting today in London, Los Angeles, New York, Tokyo, San Francisco and Paris, the app can show you points of interest around you in augmented reality. Just lift your Android or iOS phone, and thanks to your device’s camera, the app is able to display shops, bars, banks, ATMs and other useful places in your direct environment.
No need for a sense of direction
Information from Google Maps (notes, open/closed status, level of attendance, average prices, but also direction and distance, etc.) is also displayed. Nearby locations hidden by other buildings can also be shown. Enough to get a real overview of your surroundings and no longer really have any excuse to get lost.
To take advantage of this feature in the six cities concerned at the moment, just press the camera icon in the search bar.
At the same time, Google has improved the search for charging stations for electric vehicles. A new filter makes it possible in particular to find those compatible with fast charging. Finally, a parameter previously reserved for a handful of countries is now available worldwide: the search for places and parking spaces designed for people with disabilities. Once enabled, a crossed-out or uncrossed-out wheelchair icon will be displayed to let the user know if a parking lot, restroom or restaurant has suitable facilities.
Source : The Verge
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