Google Maps Adds New Feature ‘Stay Safer’ for Android Users in India
The feature has been launched to safeguard people using public transport
New Delhi: Google Maps recently launched a new feature ‘Stay Safer’ for its Android Users in India. After testing the feature for quite some time, Google introduced it in the most recent update of the app. The users must update their Google Maps application to the latest version to use this feature, reported Gadgets360.
The ‘Stay Safe’ feature has been launched with an aim to safeguard people while travelling through public transport. It will alert users when taxis, auto-rickshaws, and other public transport vehicles go off-route. The live status of your route can/will also be shared with friends and family.
Once you’re on the latest version of Google Maps for Android, try searching for a destination and getting directions. A new button called ‘Stay Safer‘ would show up at the bottom of your screen. Tapping on the ‘Stay Safer’ brings two new options called ‘get off-route alerts’ and ‘share live trips’.
If you activate the ‘get off-route alerts’ option, the phone will buzz with a notification if the driver deviates more than 0.5km from the Google Maps suggested route. Users can then tap to see where they are compared to the original route, and enquire the driver about the change in route.
The users can also use the alternate option of ‘share live trips’ which enables their friends and family to keep track of their route for added safety. This option lets you share your location on most social apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Slack, and also shows you, often-contacted individuals.
On the other hand, there is no word on when this feature will be available on Google Maps for iOS Users.
Amanda Bishop, Product Manager, Google Maps, said “Through our extensive research across India, we found that a lot of people limit their mobility due to safety-related concerns. To address this, we are launching another India-first feature that will deliver a more relevant and reliable experience to our users.”
“Our new ‘Stay Safer’ feature on Google Maps will alert users who are travelling in taxis, auto-rickshaws etc. in case their vehicle goes off route, giving them peace of mind. At Google Maps, we are committed to helping make journeys safe and hassle-free and look forward to bringing more experiences like this to India and beyond,” she added.
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