Google has recently reported a Google Maps update, which will bring to the app even more benefits when a natural disaster occurs. Another convenient option of the app has been discovered by users as well.
The tech giant stated in a blog post that the SOS alerts feature of Google Maps was enhanced by inserting visual information when there is a natural disaster, with a brand new navigation warning system to guide users away from peril.
Besides the latter mentioned option, Google Maps users would be able to see accurate visualizations of events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, with other new features.
The option called SOS alert would also offer an outline of the occurrences, together with related news, emergency numbers and websites with updates from the authorities. Google Maps users, in particular, those being close to allegedly impacted regions, may expect to receive a notification days before such an even, for instance, a hurricane will occur. Forecasts of the anticipated time and route of the storm would also be noted in the notification.
In addition, the magnitude and epicenter of the earthquake will be shown in a ‘shakemap,’ which will also be accessible from within the application. Color codes would be utilized to determine the intensity of the earthquake in specific areas as well.
Even though a feature that predicts where floods are probably prone to happen is already accessible in the app, Google plans to continue enhancing the Google Maps’ functions related to natural disaster, including an option that warn people when a road is impacted by an accident and consequently re-routes to a more secure way.
Google Maps users will also have a brand new augmented reality mode to expect. The feature, which was first unveiled at last year’s Google i/O event and at the moment undergoing testings, will use the phone’s camera to help identify precisely where users are located, rather than having to direct themselves via the tiny blue dot.
Henry Lares is still early into his career as tech reporter but has already had his work published in many major publications including Tech Crunch and the Huffington Post. In regards to academics, Henry earned an engineering degree from Apex Technical School. Henry has a passion for emerging technology and covers upcoming products and breakthroughs in science and tech.
