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Google Maps Launches New ‘Stay Safer’ Feature: But What Is It?

Google Maps Launches New ‘Stay Safer’ Feature: But What Is It?

Google Maps Launches New ‘Stay Safer’ Feature: But What Is It?

Mark Cunliffe

Mark Cunliffe

If you've ever been in a taxi or auto-rickshaw in India then you'll know how terrifying it can be. When you're not weaving in and out of rush hour traffic in one of the busiest cities in the world, you're dodging children, cows and potholes at high speeds - usually without the option of a seat belt. However, it's the distrust of drivers which seems to be putting locals off using this form of transport. Today, Google Maps rolled out a 'Stay Safer' feature which they hope will be a solution.

Google Maps Stay Safer.
Google Maps

Amanda Bishop, Product Manager of Google Maps said: "Through our extensive research across India, we found that a lot of people limit their mobility due to safety-related concerns.

"To address this, we are launching another India-first feature that will deliver a more relevant and reliable experience to our users."

The feature works by alerting and notifying users if their taxi or auto-rickshaw goes off-route and allows them to share their live status with friends and family. 'Stay Safer' is available on Android phones with the latest version of Google Maps.

Amanda continued: "Our new 'Stay Safer' feature on Google Maps will alert users who are travelling in taxis, auto-rickshaws etc. in case their vehicle goes off route, giving them peace of mind. At Google Maps, we are committed to helping make journeys safe and hassle-free and look forward to bringing more experiences like this to India and beyond."

Stay Safer Alerts You When Your Taxi Goes Off Route.
Google Maps

How to use the 'Stay Safer' feature

If you have an Android phone, are in India and have the latest version of Google Maps then you should be good to go. After searching for your destination and getting directions, users can enable this experience by selecting the "Stay Safer" and "Get off-route alerts" option. If the driver deviates more than 0.5KM from the Google Maps suggested route, the phone will buzz with a prominent notification, and users can tap it to see where they are compared to the original route. Then, users can also choose to share the live trip with friends and family directly from that screen so they know and can keep track of the journey.
Google Maps is one of the most popular Android apps.
PA

It's a shame that such measures have to be taken in this day and age, but credit to Google Maps for using their power and technology for good. India is a huge place, and not everyone has their own their own vehicle so being able to trust public transport could be a game changer.

For all the latest technology news, stay tuned to LADbible.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Phones and Gadgets, World News, Google Maps, Technology