Google Maps is getting a new feature. The app already shows where speed checks are, but police will now be added.
It is, of course, heartening that Google Maps indicates locations of speed cameras. That way you can avoid a fine if you accidentally – because that’s what we assume – drive a little too fast.
While it’s a good feature, it does seem to be on the upswing. From now on, the app will indicate where there are police. So that goes beyond just speed checks.
Google Maps lets you see police
Google Maps has changed a lot over the years. This is mainly due to the acquisition of Waze, one of the best navigation apps on the market. Through that acquisition, Google has brought quite a few features from Waze to Maps.
Like Waze, Google Maps allows you to report events along the way. Think traffic jams, accidents and even speed bumps. So it can be anything, where sometimes it doesn’t quite cover it.
The new feature. (Image: WANT/Jeroen Kraak)
A speed check is obviously done by the police, but there can sometimes be something else going on. Think of a paperwork check or perhaps an accident. For the latter categories, then, a speed camera is not an appropriate indication.
To put an end to that, Google Maps is adding an additional option. The symbol for reporting a mobile speed check remains, but the police option has now been added. You can use this to warn other situations your fellow road users. To make it clearer, the feature is now also elevated.
Still a bit of a wait for Android Auto and Apple Carplay
The new feature has currently appeared in the Android and iOS app. It is still unknown when it will come to Android Auto and Apple Carplay.
Google Maps is not sitting still, as it added several other features earlier this month that focus mainly on safer driving. For example, traffic signs and different lanes should be even more visible. You can read more about that below.
