After quite a few months of beta testing, Google finally rolled out its AR walking directions feature in Google Maps for all Android and iPhone users. Dubbed Live View, this feature in Google Maps smartly uses augmented reality to provide one with walking directions.
What is Live View in Google Maps?
How many times has it happened that you are using Google Maps for walking directions and end up on a busy street totally confused about where to go? With the Live View feature, Google is using AR to smartly solve this problem. Below is a quick demo of how the feature works.
The feature is also great to have when Google Maps says you have reached your destination but you are confused as to where the exact building is.
One important point to note is that Google has not made Live View with the intention that you look at the phone while walking. It is intended to be used when you arrive at a busy street and are confused as to which lane you have to go.
How to Use Live View AR Walking Directions in Google Maps on iPhone
Live View AR walking directions in Google Maps is available in all areas where Street View data is present. The feature is compatible with all iPhones and iPads which support ARKit.
Google only just started rolling out Live View in Google Maps so the feature might not show up for everyone immediately. The rollout will take at least a couple of weeks to complete.
Step 1: Search for any place in Google Maps where Street View is available. Tap the Directions button in the bottom action bar.
Step 2: If the Live View AR feature has been rolled out for your Google account, you will see a Start AR button. Tap on the button to start using the new AR view for walking directions.
In case the feature has not been rolled to your Google account, you should update the app to the latest version from the App Store and/or try again after a few weeks.
Is Google Maps AR walking directions feature easier to follow? Let us know in the comments below.
