Los motorcycle fans They are in luck, and it is that the popular app of the Internet giant, Google Maps, will incorporate in its next update a special mode for these road riders.
If one of the main competing rivals, Waze premieres and releases quite frequently a wide catalog of new products for motorcycles, Google Maps It can't be left behind. Therefore, as an improvement, it will introduce a new mode within the application that allows it to display specific routes for motorcyclists designed to take full advantage of the benefits of riding on two wheels.
A few months ago in Android Help we make a comparison between GPS navigators: Waze vs. Google Maps, and Waze is the best GPS navigator for AndroidWith the arrival of this dedicated motorcycle mode, Google takes an important step towards reducing that gap and offering a most complete browser for all types of users.
What is the new Google Maps Motorcycle Mode?
La google app is gradually receiving a exclusive mode for motorcyclists, still available only in some specific regions of the planet, which will offer a series of alternative routes that are impossible to perform by car but can be done by motorcycle. This so-called two-wheeled mode or "motorcycle mode" has been designed to analyze the real-world motorcycle behavior in heavy traffic, narrow streets and passages where a car cannot fit or is not allowed access.
These special instructions allow Google Maps to calculate adjusted journey times al use of motorcycles and scootersclearly differentiating the estimates that a car driver, a public transport user, or a pedestrian would see. The system takes into account that motorcyclists may avoid traffic jamsTake advantage of narrower lanes, one-way streets with exceptions for motorcycles, and small neighborhood streets not recommended for large vehicles.
Furthermore, as with the other available means of transport, the following would be displayed: specific estimated arrival times for motorcycles Based on data from other travelers, traffic history, and real-time information, routes are also avoided in areas where there are... restrictions for two-wheeled vehicleswhether due to local regulations, limited highways, or fast roads that are dangerous for mopeds.
Another important advantage of this method is that the indications can be supported by visual landmarks collected via Street View. Instead of just mentioning the street name, the navigation system can guide the motorcyclist with references such as "turn after the hospital" or "pass by the park." This is very useful in areas with many narrow streets. They don't have a clear name. or they are not well signposted, which is very common in overpopulated cities.
Google's idea is that the user can memorize the route in advance More importantly, by taking advantage of these references, you can minimize distractions while riding your motorcycle and only need to consult the screen or the voice of the navigator at specific times.
To the estimated travel time by car, bus and on foot is added that of Motorcycles
The new motorcycle mode joins others such as car, bus, bicycle, and pedestrian modes. It's a fairly simple but effective improvement that will help better plan and optimize time to the millions of motorcyclists from different parts of the world.
Within the Google Maps interface, this mode is integrated as another transportation option: when searching for a route and tapping on "How to get"Alongside the usual icons, there's a motorcycle icon that lets you start navigation specifically for this type of vehicle. Before starting your journey, you can check all the turns and steps that are going to be carried out, by tapping on the steps section and enlarging any of them to see it in more detail.
Another useful feature for those who use the motorcycle on a daily basis is the possibility of add intermediate stops During the route. By tapping on the map, selecting a point of interest or a specific business and choosing the new stop option, you can recalculate the itinerary without losing the advantages of motorcycle mode: shortcuts, adjusted times and choice of roads suitable for two-wheeled vehicles.
Google is also working on integrating other general app improvements with this mode, such as enhanced 3D visualization or Immersive View in those cities where it is available, so that the motorcyclist can get a very precise idea of ​​the environment in which he will be riding, the probable traffic and the weather conditions he will encounter in each section.
Added to all this is the ability to stand out important landmarks Along the route (complex roundabouts, particularly problematic intersections, unclear U-turns, etc.), something designed to make prior planning more comfortable and safe for motorcyclists who undertake long journeys or routes in areas they do not know well.
Progressive availability of the new Biker Mode
For now, this additional functionality is only available in India, one of the countries in the world where mobile phones are most used and where citizens also most frequently use motorcycles to get from one place to another every day, but it is expected that in the coming weeks it will arrive in SpainEurope and the rest of the world.
Google is using these types of marketplaces, with extremely high traffic density and a huge number of two-wheeled users, as a real-world laboratory for fine-tuning route calculation algorithms, estimated times, and automatic detection of roads that are ideal for motorcycles But not for cars. This mode of transport is also spreading in other Asian countries and different regions, always prioritizing areas where motorcycles are one of the most commonly used means of transport.
As the company itself has explained on several occasions, the introduction of motorcycle mode is done by experimental and phased approachThe system assesses the quality of map data, traffic characteristics, and local traffic regulations in each country. This way, when it expands to new territories, the system will already have a solid foundation of two-wheeled driving behaviors and patterns.
Furthermore, this progressive rollout allows for better adjustment of elements such as the appearance of motorcycle parking spaces, the recognition of very narrow passages, alleys and service roads, or the detection of dangerous sections where it is not advisable for a motorcycle to circulate even if there is no explicit prohibition.
This is a new service that will mark a turning point for drivers, as it offers greater accuracy in times and alternative routes Motorcyclists will be able to simplify their motorcycle journeys around the world, reducing traffic jams, shortening daily commutes, and making riding more relaxed even in very congested cities.
And what do you think of this addition that will be added imminently in Google MapsFor users who commute daily on two wheels, having a dedicated mode that takes their needs into account is essential. specific needs And the reality of traffic represents a very important advance in comfort, safety and efficiency when using the motorcycle both in the city and on the highway.
