Google Maps will show toll charges, toll-free alternative routes

Starting this month, Google Maps will roll out a new feature showing users estimated toll charges to their destinations, besides displaying toll-free routes that one can take to save money.

In a blog post, Google said it is launching new improvements including toll prices, a more detailed navigation map, and iOS updates to help one plan their drive, save money and explore a new place.

This new feature will be available on Android and iOS this month for nearly 2,000 toll roads in the U.S., India, Japan and Indonesia.

“To help make the choice between toll roads and regular roads easier, we’re rolling out toll prices on Google Maps for the first time. Soon, you’ll see the estimated toll price to your destination before you start navigating thanks to trusted information from local tolling authorities,” the search engine giant said.

Images courtesy: Google Maps

“We look at factors like the cost of using a toll pass or other payment methods, what the day of the week it is, along with how much the toll is expected to cost at the specific time you’ll be crossing it… when a toll-free route is available, we’ll still show you that route as an option. Like always, you can choose to avoid seeing routes with toll roads completely. Simply tap on the three dots at the top right corner of your directions in Google Maps to see your route options and select ‘Avoid tolls’,” it added.

See traffic lights along your route

Google is also adding rich new details to Google Maps’ navigation experience so one can explore unfamiliar roads. They will soon be able to see traffic lights and stop signs along the route, along with enhanced details like building outlines and areas of interest. And, in select cities, they can see even more detailed information, like the shape and width of a road.

The new navigation map will be rolled out to select countries in the coming weeks on Android, iOS, Android Auto and CarPlay.

New widgets

The company also said it is rolling out new iOS updates that make Google Maps easier to use on the go.

“Access Google Maps from your home screen with new widgets: Our new pinned trip widget lets you access trips you’ve pinned in your Go Tab right from your iOS home screen — making it even easier to get directions. You can see your arrival time, the next departure for your transit trip, and even a suggested route if you’re driving,” it said.

Also, the existing Google Maps search widget will be made smaller so one can search for their favourite places or navigate to frequent destinations with one tiny tap.

Navigate from Apple Watch

Soon, users will also be able to get directions on Google Maps directly from their Apple Watch.

“Starting in a few weeks, you’ll no longer need to begin navigation from your iPhone. Simply tap on the Google Maps shortcut in your Apple Watch app, and the navigation will start automatically on your Apple Watch. You can also add the “Take me home” complication to your watch and tap it to start the navigation home on Google Maps,” according to Google.

Google Maps is also integrating directly into Spotlight, Siri, and the Shortcuts app on iOS. “Once you’ve set up the shortcuts, just say ‘Hey Siri, get directions’ or ‘Hey Siri, search in Google Maps’ to access Google Maps’ helpful information instantly. You’ll start seeing this feature in the coming months, with enhanced Siri search functionality coming later this summer.”