Die Google Maps route planning as well as the subsequent navigation pursue the mission of guiding the user to their destination in the best, fastest and most comfortable way. Of course, it’s also about avoiding certain obstacles if possible. An update is now being rolled out that indicates stairs that are within the planned route more clearly than before.
It can happen that a route created by Google Maps route planning not only leads over flat terrain, but can also contain an incline – for example in the form of a public staircase. If this is the case, the Google Maps route planning and navigation will indicate this more clearly than before after the latest update, thus showing the user at first glance what possible challenges can be expected along the way.
Stairs not only have to be an obstacle for wheelchair users, but of course also for parents with strollers, people with a lot of luggage, knee pain or just plain exhaustion. To prevent this from happening, the route can be adjusted before you set off thanks to the “warning”. There is currently no option to avoid stairs on the path, but it may be possible depending on how this advice is used.
Previously, the information about an existing staircase was part of the map and was therefore displayed very small. If the route goes over it, the map information is now hidden and the larger display with even more precise positioning is used instead. The update was announced a few days ago and should now have reached all users of the smartphone versions of Google Maps. Because very few drivers and cyclists drive on stairs, this is only shown in pedestrian navigation.
» Google Maps: Big changes to location history – timeline will soon only be saved locally
Last updated on 2024-11-27 / Images from the Amazon Product Advertising API / Affiliate links, thank you for your support!
