Although Material You recently gave Google Maps a new look, a more useful overhaul is soon to come. These updates, which were first revealed in February 2024, are intended to improve user experience and give the map more importance.

Google Maps Is Getting Ready For A User-friendly Update

Even with its market domination in navigation apps, Google Maps is still prone to interface clutter. A lot of buttons and panels are used in the current design, which can make it difficult for the user to see the map itself. By encouraging greater use of screen real estate and streamlining the interface, this future redesign addresses this problem.

Purpose-Fitted Panels: From Clutter To Clarity

Bottom panels are widely used in the current version of Google Maps for a number of functions. It’s not always obvious that they may be enlarged or reduced, though, so their design can be a little confusing. Furthermore, a sizable section of the map is frequently obscured by these maximized panels.

A redesigned route selection interface is one way the new design tackles this. The header will become a brief floating summary of the origin and destination instead of a fixed header. A revamped bottom panel will hold all other options, such as selecting between driving, public transportation, walking, cycling, etc. This method encourages a logical flow: after choosing the transport option, users may examine the relevant details right below. The trade-off is always a much crisper map picture, even though details may appear somewhat compacted.

Optimized Panels: Sustaining Structure

An additional noteworthy modification pertains to the operation of expanded panels that exhibit details about particular areas. Previously, user orientation was hampered by these panels’ total masking of the underlying map. In order to solve this, the updated design keeps the panel’s subdued map background and adds a prominent “X” button for closure.

A Detailable Display And A Forecasted Announcement

A small number of users have reportedly been able to see this new interface, which points to a phased rollout approach, according to reports from 9to5Google. It’s very possible that Google will formally announce these changes during Google I/O, giving the public release a longer window of opportunity.

To sum up, Google Maps is pushing a redesign that is user-centric and puts an emphasis on readability and simplicity. Google wants to give its consumers a more simple and enjoyable navigation experience, so it’s simplifying the design, highlighting the map view, and enhancing panel functionality.