Google Maps expands Live View AR navigation tool
Google Maps users on smartphones can now use virtual arrows to help them follow directions in the navigation app.
Known as Live View, the feature uses augmented reality (AR) to overlay the digital arrows onto the real world as seen through a smartphone camera.
Combined with a 2D map at the bottom of the screen, users can then use the feature to help direct them towards their destination.
Google Maps meets AR.
Rolling out to Pixel phones, starting today. #io19 pic.twitter.com/rDBxvbZyF8
— Google Maps (@googlemaps) May 7, 2019
The feature, previously only available to Google Pixel users having been introduced earlier this year, will now be open to compatible Android and iPhone handsets, Google said.
It will be available on devices running Android version 7.0 and later and iPhone handsets running iOS 11.
“There’s nothing like exploring a city on foot – it’s a great way to take in the sights and sounds of a new place,” the technology giant said in a blog post.
“But it can be hard to know exactly which direction to go. With a feature called Live View, you can use augmented reality (AR) to better see which way to walk. Arrows and directions are placed in the real world to guide your way.
“We’ve tested Live View with the Local Guides and Pixel community over the past few months, and are now expanding the beta to Android and iOS devices that support ARCore and ARKit starting this week.”
Earlier this summer, Google Maps also added crowdedness predictions to UK public transport in an effort to help users avoid the busiest buses and trains during rush hour.
