SoylentNews is people
SoylentNews
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: 2, Interesting) by tftp on Wednesday May 27 2015, @12:37AM
I also have a Garmin (Nuvi 2797,) and I'm happy enough with it. I don't have a smartphone; and even if I had one I wouldn't want to tell Google all about my travel. Garmin does not depend on online access. It is a dedicated device that powers itself on and off along with the car. It has a large, bright 7" screen. It's extremely convenient at least because it's always in the car, and I don't need to fiddle with the phone, mount it, start applications, etc. It works well.
This Garmin GPS also has the traffic receiver. I do get alerts now and then about certain traffic problems. They are not always true, and not always on time. I live with that.
(Score: 2) by frojack on Wednesday May 27 2015, @04:13AM
Distinction:
Garmin does not depend on online access.
But no difference:
This Garmin GPS also has the traffic receiver.
You still get traffic updates distributed via Radio sub-carrier from certain large stations. And it is late, and it is often wrong. But you live with it because ... you don't want to show google where you are.
Thanks for sharing.
No, you are mistaken. I've always had this sig.
(Score: 1) by tftp on Wednesday May 27 2015, @04:44AM
But you live with it because ... you don't want to show google where you are.
Primarily I don't care about that feature. The fact that Google gets nothing is just a free benefit :-)