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Google Maps set to offer real-time tracking when you're on the bus or train

The new feature is also said to deliver live updates direct to your lock screen and alert you when it's time to disembark.
By
December 12, 2017
TL;DR
  • An upcoming Google Maps update will reportedly provide real-time tracking on public transport
  • This would offer live updates on your location, both in-app and on your phone’s lock screen
  • The feature may also alert users when they have reached their destination

Google Maps is the go-to app for when you’re on the road. Whether you’re travelling, heading to a job interview, or just meeting friends, it makes getting around easy, and it’s frequently updated with new features. According to a report from TechCrunch, Maps may soon get another significant function: real-time tracking on public transport.

Currently, when you use Google Maps on a bus, tram or train, you can follow your GPS dot to see your approximate location. This, however, isn’t always accurate. With the new Maps feature, you would start a journey in the same way as previously, only it would seemingly provide live updates on where you are at each step on your travels.

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According to the Tech Crunch report, which seems to be based on insider-information, these updates would appear in the app, but also on the lock screen, allowing you to keep track of your current location at a glance. What’s more, Google Maps may provide some kind of prompt when you are approaching your destination so you know to get off your bus/train.

This sounds like a great addition, especially for someone travelling or living in an unfamiliar city (like myself). I often struggle to determine which station I’m currently at or approaching and I often need to repeatedly open the app just to double check where I’m supposed to be going. Getting this information in a glance on my lock screen would be mighty helpful.

The feature is said to be rolling out “soon” but we don’t have anything more concrete regarding timelines. What are your thoughts? Is this a function you’d like to see in Google Maps? Let us know in the comments.