Google Maps update: The two most important features you must know about

Google Maps has received an update that brings back speed limit alerts to UK users. The feature initially debuted back in May last year but fans reported its disappearance the following month. No explanation was ever given for the removal of the feature, but it’s back now nonetheless. As you’d expect, the new update displays the speed limit of the road the user is currently driving on if they’re using Google Maps for navigation when they’re behind the wheel. The functionality should put an end to any uncertainty when driving down unknown roads or those without speed limits clearly marked.

According to tipsters that reached out to Android Police, the new feature is appearing on Google Maps for Android and Android Auto – a version of the mobile operating system designed to run on car dashboards.

The re-emergence of the new feature suggests Google could be rolling it out widely again. Of course, as it disappeared for UK users last time, it’s always possible it could be pulled this time around.

Still, the feature is undoubtedly one of the most important to come to Google Maps in years and is the perfect accompaniment to the app’s speed camera feature.

Google Maps was updated to show the locations of speed cameras last year that, unlike the speed limits feature, has remained available for UK users since its debut.

Google Maps will show the location of any speed cameras on a planned route and will play an audio cue to let you know when you’re approaching one. This tool is available on both Android and iOS devices.

Of course, both the speed camera and speed limits feature are designed to keep drivers and pedestrians safe. The UK Government says speed limits displayed are the “absolute maximum” and should not be exceeded.

Discussing UK speed limits, the Government notes: “You must not drive faster than the speed limit for the type of road and your type of vehicle. The speed limit is the absolute maximum – it doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive at this speed in all conditions.

“A speed limit of 30 miles per hour (mph) or 48 kilometres per hour (km/h) usually applies, unless you see signs showing otherwise.”

The re-release of the speed limits feature comes during the week of Google Maps’ 15th birthday. To celebrate the occasion, the Mountain View firm has treated it to a new logo and app redesign.

Discussing the upgrade, Google said: “In 2005, we set out to map the world. Since then we’ve pushed the limits of what a map can do: from helping you easily navigate from point A to B, to helping you explore and get things done in the world. With more than 1 billion people turning to Google Maps to see and explore the world, we’re celebrating our 15th birthday with a new look and product updates based on feedback from you.

“Starting today, you’ll see an updated Google Maps app for Android and iOS that gives you everything you need at your fingertips with five easy-to-access tabs: Explore, Commute, Saved, Contribute and Updates.

“We’re also updating our look with a new Google Maps icon that reflects the evolution we’ve made mapping the world. It’s based on a key part of Google Maps since the very beginning—the pin— and represents the shift we’ve made from getting you to your destination to also helping you discover new places and experiences.”

source: express.co.uk