Find and share your location in new ways with Google Maps

You know the drill. You’re trying to find the best way to get from point A to point B using public transit, and at the same time you want your friends to know how to find you. Google Maps for iOS has recently been updated to make both of those tasks even easier, along with finding out more about the places you visit.

Using public transit

Public transport directions have been overhauled in the app, giving you more route choices. Google Maps for iOS also gives you real-time arrival information, including details about any delays you might experience. Google Maps will also use this information to let you know if a business will be closed by the time you arrive.

Sharing your location

New sharing options have been added to Google Maps. For instance, you can share a place on Facebook. When you’re traveling, this is a good way to clue people in to where you’re visiting and what sights you might be seeing.

You can also send a map URL to a friend via Messenger for Facebook, letting you set up a meeting place.

See images around you

A new Image Gallery has been added for certain locations. To see it in action, look out for the compass rose like shown in the screen shot below.

When you tap on the compass rose, it allows you to get a good visual understanding of the location and what’s near you in a grid view.

Better than Apple Maps?

With the latest update, Google Maps is once again giving Apple’s native GPS app a run for its money. Apple isn’t giving up the competition, though. We’ve previously reported on Cupertino’s vehicles touring England, Ireland, and the U.S. taking pictures for what might be Apple’s version of Street View.

Google Maps is designed for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. It requires iOS 7.0 or later, and is available for free on the App Store without ads or in-app purchases.

Image credit: Wikipedia

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