The next generation of Google Maps has arrived, and it may make traveling a little easier.
Google released a slew of new and improved Maps features for about 70% of users on Wednesday afternoon.
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Some people have already been using a preview version of the new Google Maps, which debuted in May. However, the redesign is now making its way to the masses, and some of its new tricks may be helpful for travelers and commuters.
The revamped Google Maps has an updated HopStop-like public transportation feature that shows you the buses or subways that will get you from point A to point B, and how long each one takes.
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The new ‘Upcoming events’ feature on Google Maps lets you see what is going on at popular music venues without opening another tab.
The old Google Maps did allow you to pick the exact time and date of your travels, but with the new version, clicking “List all times and options” brings up an interactive timeline. From there, you can fiddle around with your departure and arrival times and see all of your public transportation options at once.
People who want to gauge how long it will take them to get somewhere right before they leave can use Google Maps’ updated real-time traffic feature, which shows reported accidents, backups and closures. You can also prevent potential road rage by seeing if walking or biking will actually get you there faster.
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Trying to decide whether to book a flight or drive somewhere? You can now get flight information as well as prices right on the map.
The update is aesthetically pleasing and incorporates more of Google Earth, but perhaps the biggest improvement is that all of the information you'd want, and even some you might not, pops up on the same screen.
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Air travel is now a transit option on Google Maps.
When you look for entertainment venues, you can click “Upcoming Events” at the bottom of the listing and see a schedule.
If you search for a specific restaurant, its address and hours will show up, along with reviews, Zagat ratings, and maybe a link to make reservations or see a menu.
If you are looking for somewhere to eat and do a general search like “Italian restaurants in New York,” some places will show up along with a pithy description, like “Casual trattoria for Italian staples” or “Ritzy Italian eatery.”
There are now more chances to explore the world from your desk. When you search for popular destinations, you may have the option of taking a photo tour, looking at a street view and browsing pictures. You can also switch the 3D Google Earth mode.
Tourists planning trips, or anyone who wants to take a brief mental vacation, can also take a peek inside some popular landmarks and museums including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Your maps are also becoming personalized. If you have already scheduled your trip and linked your Gmail account to Google Maps, upcoming restaurant and hotel reservations will pop up on your screen. The "smart" map will start making suggestions based on reviews you’ve left or places you favorited as well.
vtaylor@nydailynews.com
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