No app has revolutionized transportation more than Google Maps, with the introduction of Navigation in beta with Android Eclair 2.0 the app began offering GPS guided for free. This navigation has evolved to also work on smart watches: Wear OS has just updated its Google Maps application to extend guidance to public transport.
After dipping its toes into smartwatch hardware with the Google Pixel Watch, it seems the company has regained interest in those accessories’ operating system, Wear OS. In fact, Google recently announced various changes aimed at improving the experience, especially when using with Google Maps. Because it is extremely useful to walk around the city and know where to go just by turning your wrist. And if these indications are transferred to public transport, the usefulness is multiplied.
You don’t need to turn on your phone to know which stop to get off at.
Public transport directions in Wear OS. Google image (via 9to5Google)
The directions on the smart watch are perfect for moving from one point to another in the city while changing metro, bus or any other public transport: apart from the fact that it is much more comfortable to watch the watch screen, It can also prevent phone theft. And Google Maps updates its application on Wear OS to improve this aspect.
After showing the novelty at the last Mobile World Congress, Wear OS step-by-step guidance is beginning to be rolled out to all users of one of these smart watches. This was confirmed by 9to5Google, which spotted Google’s update through its servers.
The search process can be done from the watch and each instruction will also appear step by step on the Wear OS screen. In this way, no will have You have to check your cell phone to know what the next stop is, if you have to walk to the next link or when the next train is scheduled to arrive: each notice will appear on the smartwatch screen preceded by a vibration. This avoids distractions and makes it much easier not to get lost in the public transport network, especially in an unfamiliar city.
The new Google Maps feature for Wear OS can be used with the screen always on (Always On Display or AOD) and allows the rest of the watch to continue to be used with a background operation of the route using Google Maps. An icon will even appear on the watch face to easily navigate back to directions, all to make your journey easier.
Currently, guidance in public transport extends to all Wear OS watches on which the latest version of Google Maps for this system, number 11.119.0702.W, is installed. This may still take some time to arrive: the update is gradually being completed.
Cover image | Google
By | 9to5Google
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