Reached Location But Still Searching For Entrance? Google Maps Might Soon Show It To You

by Benzinga Neuro, Benzinga Staff Writer
March 5, 2024 6:16 AM | 2 min read | Make a Comment
Zinger Key Points
  • Google experiments with a new Maps feature to display specific building entrances, aiming to refine navigation.
  • The additional functionality could significantly improve user experience for locating precise entrances in unfamiliar areas.
  • Current testing phase means wider availability may take time, as Google likely needs to manually add entrance data.

In an attempt to improve user navigation further, Alphabet Inc.'s Google Maps is reportedly experimenting with a feature to highlight building entrances.

What Happened: A report by Android Police uncovered that Google Maps is conducting a limited test of entrance indicator icons for certain structures. These icons become visible when a location is selected and zoomed in on the map, offering users a more detailed view. Currently, the feature is in the early stages of testing.

The report confirmed the feature’s presence on Google Maps version 11.17.0101 on a Google Pixel 7a. The entrance indicators, appearing as white circles with an entry symbol, only surface when a place is selected and sufficiently zoomed in on. The feature was not spotted on other devices with the latest Google Maps update.

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The experiment encompassed a variety of building types such as hotels, cafes, supermarkets, and doctors' offices, located in cities including New York, Las Vegas, San Francisco, and Berlin. However, entrances were not displayed for all locations, suggesting that Google is still in the process of data collection.

The introduction of building entrance indicators follows a recent feature for public transit navigation, which shows specific entry and exit points for train and subway stations. The building entrance indicator could be an extension of this existing feature.

Why It Matters: Google Maps has consistently been at the forefront of innovation to improve user experience, and this latest feature aligns with that commitment. Users can navigate their destinations with greater precision and ease by providing detailed entrance indicators.

Furthermore, Google’s ongoing data collection process for this feature implies a commitment to refining and expanding its capabilities, potentially offering more comprehensive navigation support in the future. This experiment is another step in Google’s pursuit of superior navigation solutions.

Photo by Bilanol on Shutterstock

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