Google Maps widget for Android launched, will be available to all users gradually: Report

Google Maps is go-to navigation application for millions of Android users around world. application will get a new home screen widget which will make it easier for users to use navigation functionality quickly. According to several reports, feature has been spotted in Google Maps' APK files and has been spotted by a few users around world. new widget is said to come with multiple elements and new features. 

new Google Maps widget contains a search bar on top of interface and shortcuts to nearby stores and or locations. Users will be able to set quick navigation for most visited places, including home or office. Screenshots shared by XDA Developers confirm same. quick navigation feature will save user's time by typing in dress of ir destination and setting up a route for same. 

Google Maps widget for Android starts rolling out

According to a recent report, number of navigation shortcuts in Google Maps widget is limited to eight, and it also shows nearby petrol pumps, restaurants and grocery stores. From what it looks like, Google Maps widget also supports dynamic me on devices that run Android 12.  new mobile operating system from Google supports Dynamic mes where colour schemes of interface are based on phone's wallpaper, which is a part of new Material You design.

latest Google Maps widget will come out with version 11.3.0 of Google Maps and seems to be similar on both Android and iOS. Most recently, Google Maps rolled out a new update, called 'wildfire layer', to help users check for wildfires and provide better navigation. Users will be able to check details about multiple wildfires, which will play a crucial role in navigating, especially during emergencies. feature will work by accessing satellite data. 

Using Wildfire Layer feature, users will be able to tap on virtual fire indicator on Google Maps and see available links such as emergency websites, evacuation details, contact numbers for information and help and emergency websites. feature will also inform users about details of containment of fire, area burnt and time of last update.

Image: Mathieu_G_Gagnon/XDA Developers