Google Maps has been changing and improving its interface for a long time. Whether it is adding a satellite view or full screen menus, the application has been used widely and is appreciated for its creativity. Yet again, Google Maps has made navigation on Android devices a smoother experience with a new interface. Replacing the traditional full screen menus, Google Maps has brought a new sheet-based design that keeps the map in view at all times. This revamp is now rolling out globally.
The new sheet interface features a fresh design featuring softer, more rounded corners and a greater emphasis on the background layer, showcasing the map more prominently throughout the app. This redesign not only helps maintain context while navigating but also gives Google Maps a sleeker, more lightweight appearance.
Google Maps: What is new?
This revamp aims to improve the overall user experience by maintaining map visibility at all times, simplified interaction, and clearer information hierarchy. Let’s look at the details. The sheet-based interface will provide the user with a view of map details, like location, route, and surrounding landmarks, at all times. Earlier, the user had to move back and forth to check these and this hindered the map view.
This new interface will give users quick access to frequently used options like transportation mode selection or route variations. Now, through sheets, you only have to slide up from the bottom of the screen to use these options, without cluttering the main map display.
The updated design also highlights essential journey details, such as departure and arrival points, within the simplified sheets, prioritising the most critical navigation information and streamlining your travel experience.
The sheet-based design is currently rolling out for Android only. Though a gradual roll-out, the design will come to users on the stable channel of the Google Maps app (version 11.36.x) for Android. For iOS, Google has not revealed any such plans, but it is expected to roll out in the near future as well.
Google Maps: Speedometer and speed limits on iPhone
Earlier this month, Google also confirmed to add a speedometer on iOS and CarPlay. Google Maps is also globally rolling out speed limit indicators for the road you’re on. During vehicle navigation, a circular speedometer appears in the bottom-left corner, displaying your current speed. If you exceed the speed limit, the indicator changes colour, providing a visual warning to help you adjust your speed and stay safe on the road.
On the safety front, Google says the gauge is “for informational use only” and that “external factors may cause the Maps Speedometer to differ from your actual speed.”