Google on Thursday revealed an update for Google Maps that aims make the platform more accessible for the visually impaired.
“Google Maps is rolling out a new feature that gives people the ability to receive more detailed voice guidance and new types of verbal announcements for walking trips,” the company said on its blog.
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The new features, which were built by visually impaired individuals, help users better navigate the streets around them independently.
“Google Maps proactively lets me know that I’m on the correct route, the distance until my next turn and the direction I’m walking in. As I approach large intersections, I get a heads-up to cross with added caution,” Google business analyst Wakana Sugiyama explained.
Maps will also send a voice notification if you deviate from your set route as well.
According to Google, the new voice guidance will begin rolling out to both iOS and Android users in the United States and Japan this week.
Earlier this year, the company also added a host of old Trips features to Google Maps after killing off the former platform.
Feature image: screenshot, Google Maps via YouTube
