There are rumors that Google is developing its own Uber competitor but until that happens it’s going to allow you to hail an Uber from the Google Maps app. Uber was actually one of the first car services that were integrated into Maps but it’s certainly not going to be the only one. Google is integrating a slew of other car services in Google Maps so you’re always spoilt for choice when deciding how you want to get from one place to another.
A new update has been rolled out today for Google Maps. It adds more car services providers across five supported countries.
Users in Brazil get 99Taxis, Ola Cabs in India, Hailo in Spain and the United Kingdom, mytaxi in Spain and Germany as well as Gett in the United Kingdom. All of these car services will be available alongside Uber which is the global ride service partner for Google Maps.
If you have the desired car service’s app installed on your device then tapping on the ride service tab in Google Maps will allow you to see fare estimates and pick up times if a car is available nearby. Tap on the desired service and you’ll automatically be taken to their app to book the ride.
Google Maps is also going to show ride service availability when viewing the map in walking and transit mode “when it makes sense.” The app will list multiple options for service providers if they exist, for example, Uber users will be able to see fare estimates from uberX, uberXL and UberBlack.
The new app will be rolled out on Android over the next few days and the update will soon arrive on iOS as well.
Filed in . Read more about Google, Google Maps and Uber. Source: maps.googleblog