Andy Walker / Android Authority
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TL;DR
- Google Maps is getting a new update that makes stop signs and traffic lights easier to spot.
- It will show them in the same floating boxes that display the names of upcoming streets while navigating.
Google Maps is already packed with features, though it could still add a few useful ones. Now, it seems at least one helpful quality-of-life feature is rolling out to Maps users on Android Auto that could really make a difference.
According to 9to5Google, Google Maps in Android Auto can now display traffic lights and stop signs coming up along your route. This is a subtle but useful change from how the app used to show them on the map.
Previously, these were static symbols on the map surface, which were helpful, but not very noticeable. Now, Google Maps is starting to show users traffic lights or stop signs that may be coming up on their next turn or elsewhere along their route. These appear alongside other information, such as the name of the street you need to turn onto. This change could make it easier for drivers to slow down in preparation for an upcoming stop sign.
These new floating traffic light and stop sign indicators are also starting to show up while navigating on a smartphone. It is likely, therefore, that the feature is available on iPhones and CarPlay as well.
It is unclear how widely this is rolling out right now. Like most Google updates, it could be a server-side rollout that takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of months to reach everyone.
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