Google Maps for iOS makes way for more improvements

Google has once again updated the official iOS app of its mapping service with new features and improvements that make it an even more worthwhile competitor to Apple Maps and other mobile mapping apps.

On the way

The latest update to Google Maps for iOS most notably revamps the app’s display of public transport directions so that more route options and real-time arrival information are made available.

At a glance, you can view a summary of routes that you can choose from. As a result, it’s now easier to know your waiting times and see your other options should you miss your first route choice.

Just tap the transit icon on the routing screen to check a recommended route along with other route choices and transport considerations, including information for a ride with Uber.

Google Maps transit

In the loop

The newly updated Google Maps app also adds support for third-party app share extensions. This allows you to share a place directly from the app through Gmail, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Viber, Line, Tumblr, and more.

Just tap the share button in a place page, tap More on the share sheet, and then enable the apps whose share extensions you’d like to use with Google Maps.

Google Maps share

At the gallery

Previously, tapping the header image or photos section on a place page opens a gallery of place pictures where you can view only one image at a time — in which case it can be tiresome to swipe one picture after another to get a feel of the place.

Now, tapping the header image or photos section on a place page brings up a grid view of the gallery of place pictures, thereby giving you a visual understanding of the place more quickly. Tapping a photo on the grid takes you to the old one-at-a-time full-screen gallery view.