“Convenient” routes are coming to Google Maps – What’s changing with the new updates

New updates are coming to Google Maps that will make it easier for the user to find alternative routes and means of transportation, with the aim of protecting the environment. In particular, the alternative movement that the maps will suggest will allow finding “convenient” routes, whether on foot or by public transport, the alternatives to air travel and of course to understand the estimated emissions of flights.

The available options for urban commuting, in addition to car navigation, are walking or mass transit, provided travel times are comparable and feasible. This feature will be available in the coming weeks in more than 15 cities around the world, including Amsterdam, Barcelona, ​​London, Montreal, Paris, Rome and Sydney.

Search filters and Google flights

At the same time, the search filters are expanded in order to enable the user to find information about long-distance trains and buses. In other words, if someone wants to travel by train, Google Maps will give them information about routes and ticket prices, along with links to make a direct reservation. This feature is now available for trains in 38 countries and for buses in 15 countries.

Sustainable solutions

Understandably, for some destinations it may not be obvious that trains are a good alternative to flying. For this reason, in collaboration with Google flights, there will be suggestions for making the trip by train. This is a much more sustainable solution and it is good to choose it when it is convenient.

Also, if the only way to travel from point A to B is by plane, it’s good to know that the environmental impact of your trip can vary quite a bit depending on the flight you choose. With Google flights you can see the estimated emissions for almost all flights and of course play with the filters to choose the most environmentally friendly one.