If you use Google Maps on iOS, the latest update might be of interest to you. This is because in the latest update to the app, Google has introduced a couple of new features, one of which is integration with iMessage which means that users can now share their location via iMessage using Google Maps if that’s what they prefer.
Using the feature is pretty straightforward and appears to be similar to Apple’s very own “Send my current location” feature in iMessage. Locations are sent to the person that will display a small map, which when pressed will launch Google Maps. However as noted by AppleInsider, the location sharing feature with Google Maps is not dynamically updated so that’s something you might want to take note of.
In addition to the integration with iMessage, the update also adds a new Directions widget to iOS. If you’ve always preferred Google Maps to Apple Maps, then this new feature will come in handy. Just like Apple Maps, this new Directions widget for Google Maps will allow users to use turn-by-turn directions from their phone’s lock screen itself.
It does not appear to be quite as rich compared to that of Apple Maps, but it should be good enough to get the job done. The update is already live and users can grab the update from the iTunes App Store.
Filed in . Read more about Apps, Google Maps, Imessage and iOS.