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Martin Brinkmann at gHacks reports
Google is rolling out a new traffic information [widget] for the mobile version of Google Maps [...] that integrates traffic information in the navigator.
The feature works in two [...] ways. In the first, traffic information [is] immediately displayed to you once you enter your destination in the app.
The application informs you about traffic jams, construction, or any other obstacles that may slow you down on your way to your destination. In addition to giving reasons, it highlights by how much you [will be] slowed down if you take a particular route.
The information [is] updated while you are following the directions Google Maps provides [...]. You may receive congestion alerts that include a delay estimate so that you know what you are getting yourself into.
Google Maps may suggest alternative routes while you are driving, and each alternative includes explanations [...] why it recommends [that you] take that route.
[...] Google makes no mention whether it is limited to certain geographical locations.
[...] The functionality seems similar to what Waze offers, a company that Google acquired in 2013.
In the comments, Naveed notes that he has already been using the feature but doesn't say for how long nor where he is.[...] and Martin, whose first language is German, uses English better than some guys I've encountered who only speak English.
[Editor's Comment: Original Submission]
(Score: 4, Interesting) by Techwolf on Wednesday May 27 2015, @12:14AM
As a truck driver, I have been using google maps with traffic overlay for years. How is this new? In fact, i have been useing a version thats over a year old due to removed features in the lastest ones.
(Score: 3, Informative) by frojack on Wednesday May 27 2015, @04:22AM
How is it different?
Your version only shows you slow sections of road, already congested by backed up or slow traffic.
This will show you closed routes, the cause of the slowdown, and recommend alternate routing.
A minor breakdown is a lot different than a multi-car crash. One might clear before you get there.
No, you are mistaken. I've always had this sig.
(Score: 2) by Techwolf on Wednesday May 27 2015, @11:28PM
Mine version allready does that. Green lines for fast traffic, yellow for congestion or just plain slow traffic, red for slow or backup, deep red for parking lot, grey for not moving at all or no data due to traffic moving at 0 mph for at least 10 minutes. This show interstate closures.