Google developed an AI model specifically for Indian roads that incorporates multiple signals – satellite imagery, Street View, and other information like road types, distance between buildings, paved sections, etc. to estimate road widths at scale.
In order to improve user experience and encourage sustainable travel, Google has unveiled six new features for Google Maps in India, which are reportedly based on artificial intelligence and local partnerships. The updates are scheduled to be released this week and are intended to tackle some of the most prevalent problems encountered by Indian commuters.
“Our quest to build a better Maps experience is never ending, and India presents many amazing opportunities to bring the best of our AI and geospatial technologies to address complex real-world challenges”, Google said in an official blog post.
“Today, we’re thrilled to share exciting new features that we’re launching in India to make your navigation and exploration journeys more efficient and sustainable. Many of these solutions are being pioneered in India, for India. From a custom-built AI approach for tackling narrow roads and flyovers to powering sustainable journeys with EV charging stations, as well as enabling the biggest community of map contributors to surface real-time road disruptions on the map, we’re excited to bring such helpful features to millions across the country. India truly is at the centre of our innovation, and we can’t wait to build the future of Maps right here”, Google added.
Narrow Road Navigation Made Easy with AI
For four-wheeler drivers, navigating narrow or congested roads in unfamiliar places can be challenging. To address this, Google introduced a new feature for Google Maps users in India, which was designed to reduce the use of narrow roads when driving four-wheelers.
It starts with estimating road widths, which is incredibly complex, given India’s vast and diverse road network. To address this, Google developed an AI model specifically for Indian roads that incorporates multiple signals – satellite imagery, Street View, and other information like road types, distance between buildings, paved sections, etc. to estimate road widths at scale.
Using these road width estimates, they have fine-tuned their current AI routing algorithms to help four-wheelers avoid narrow roads whenever possible without significantly impacting travel time or distance. This means four-wheeler drivers can enjoy a less stressful driving experience, and it also benefits bikers, pedestrians, and other commuters who can now use these narrow roads more safely and confidently.
Sometimes, taking a narrow road is unavoidable, especially if it is the only optimal way to reach your destination. Hence, Google has added clear callouts in Maps Directions and Navigation screens to alert drivers to narrow sections on the route so that they can proceed cautiously or choose an alternative route.
“The diversity of road types in India makes this a complex challenge, and we won’t always get it right. However, we’re committed to continuously learning and improving the feature based on what we see in the real world and listening to user feedback. We’re starting to roll out this feature on Android devices this week in eight cities: Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Indore, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati,” the blog post read.
“We look forward to bringing this to iOS and more cities soon”, they added.
Flyover navigation demystified
Another common issue users frequently encounter with Google Maps is the uncertainty surrounding whether or not to take a flyover. To help drivers better prepare for approaching elevated roadways during their journeys, Google Maps will now highlight flyovers along recommended routes in 40 Indian cities.
EV journeys made easy with local support
Google has incorporated data on more than 8,000 charging stations into Maps and Search through partnerships with top EV charging providers. With India being the first nation to have two-wheeler EV charging stations on Google Maps, users can now see real-time availability and filter by charger type.
Metro ticket booking
With the new metro ticket buying option powered by ONDC and Namma Yatri, passengers on public transportation in Kochi and Chennai would benefit. The integration streamlines the commute process by enabling customers to buy tickets straight from Google Maps.
Easily report road incidents
The upgrade also makes it simpler for local contributors to report traffic issues and exchange information by improving user-generated material. Android, iOS, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto will all support this feature.
The new features, which tailor Maps for the Indian market and address issues related to local transportation, will be gradually released for Android and iOS devices.
Curated lists of favourite spots
To improve users’ exploration experiences, Google is working with local experts to compile lists of recommended locations in ten popular cities and tourist destinations.