Google Redesigns Maps, Adds Open Table Reservations and Uber Estimates

Google has moved a notch up with its redesigned Maps for mobiles. Going beyond the rudimentary search and navigation, it has now become a sophisticated tool with increased functionality. The redesigned app covers a broader spectrum by allowing the users to get Open Table Reservations and Uber Estimates. The updated Material Design has revamped the entire look of the app and made it more actionable. The evolved version of Google Maps is consistent with both Android and iOS and comes at a time when the launch of Android 5.0 (Lollipop) is just around the corner.

Open Table Reservations

Earlier, Google Maps provided the user with turn-by-turn directions, locations, business reviews, showed photos and gave a link for making reservations. But the new Material Design has saved the task of skipping to another link by allowing the user to make reservations without leaving the app. This feature has come up as a competition against applications like Yelp, Foursquare, YP and others that were already offering similar integrated uses.

Uber Estimates

For using this feature, installing the Uber app is a prerequisite, which should be easy as it can be done for free. Previously, Google Maps gave a link to users for connecting with the car calling services of Uber. Now, it will also give information about the estimated time for car arrival, how long will it take to drive down till the destination and also the fare for this travel.

The company officials quoted, This new look is all about creating surfaces and shadows that echo the real world; with Google Maps new material feel, layers and buttons come to life so you know just where to touch to get directions, recommendations and imagery This evolution is a part of the holistic approach being introduced in mobiles for giving more real life engaging and content discovery opportunities to the users.