New Google Maps Features: Curbside Pickup, Indoor Live View and More

There are so many Google products that it’s difficult to keep up with all the changes that happen in the background. For businesses, Google Maps is one of the most important products to stay on top of, because it’s where consumers are going to find out basic information about their local businesses.

We’ve compiled a few of the newest changes to Google Maps for you!

1. Curbside Pickup On Maps

The pandemic has clearly shifted the way businesses and consumers interact. One of the main ways that businesses have had to adapt is to allow customers a better way to order products while still minimizing any sort of physical contact.

To help facilitate this new way of doing business, Google is adding new information to Business Profiles on Maps and Search. Businesses will be able to add delivery providers, pickup/delivery windows, order minimums and fees. Keep in mind not all businesses will have this feature right away, but Google plans to roll it out and expand to Maps partners.

Later in 2021, Google is piloting another program where consumers will be able to place an order for pickup, add the location to maps and notify the store with updated location-based information so that the order is completely ready by the time a customer arrives.

2. Eco-Friendly Routes

As part of Google’s commitment to help people take action in reducing their environmental footprint, their routing technology will now prioritize routes that require lower fuel consumption.

Eco-friendly routes launch in the US later this year, but if you want to always use the fastest route, consumers can adjust that in settings.

Google’s new eco-friendly options aren’t just limited to driving in your car either. Consumers will have more tools that give them a view of all routes and modes of transportation they can use to get from place to place. Learning from past trips, Google will prioritize your preferred transportation choice based on what you’ve used before or what’s available in your area.

3. Indoor Live View

One last update that is rolling out to limited businesses is a new “Live View” that uses Augmented Reality cues to send users to the destination they’re looking for. Live View will be most useful in places where directions can be confusing or stressful. Think train stations, airports or malls.

By pulling up a Live View in Google, users get to see Augmented Reality arrows and graphics that will help to steer them where they’re trying to go.

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New Google Maps Features: Curbside Pickup, Indoor Live View and Eco-Friendly Routes was originally published in Social Media For Business Owners on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.