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Google Maps for iOS now notifies drivers of alternative, faster routes while driving

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Google continues to push its Maps product on iOS in the latest update, version 2.6. The app now alerts the driver when faster routes become available when navigating. This reflects functionality found in dedicated sat navs. Rather than simply offering several routing options at the beginning of your journey, Google will keep aware of traffic and road conditions in case a faster route appears later.

Theoretically, this means you are always on the fastest route possible when navigating. As always, the app is free.

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Comments

  1. liquidwolverine1 - 10 years ago

    They are adding the Waze functions I see from the acquisition last year already.

  2. OneOkami - 10 years ago

    About freakin’ time. This has always been one of my gripes with the navigation as the TomTom app I used to use did this for me (though it wasn’t free). I was becoming increasingly annoyed with sometimes having to continuing cancel and remap the route to get updated best route options.

  3. I don’t think Waze has ever rerouted one of my drives… I’ve been using it for years. You would think at one point it would be faster to change my route in the DC area where traffic is absolutely terrible.

  4. degraevesofie - 10 years ago

    Theoretically, this means you are always on the fastest route possible when navigating.

    No, it doesn’t actually: Local optimization doesn’t necessarily produce a global optimum.

    That said, it’s still a useful feature.

Author

Avatar for Benjamin Mayo Benjamin Mayo

Benjamin develops iOS apps professionally and covers Apple news and rumors for 9to5Mac. Listen to Benjamin, every week, on the Happy Hour podcast. Check out his personal blog. Message Benjamin over email or Twitter.