Earlier this week, 9to5Google highlighted a blog post from Google declaring a new function for Google Maps: texting businesses. After it launches to Android and iPhone consumers, there will be a new button for “message” on the slide out drawer present in the left side that allows you text the companies you see in Google Maps.
A company that wishes to participate will require using “My Business” verification system of Google and its allied application to receive and send texts. That application was just renovated. The renovation makes it more of a one-stop destination for small companies to update their data for Google and to communicate with users.
This new feature seems quite useful to the companies as well as users, making job easier for all. But the fact still remains true that the original messaging system by Google is still messy.
On a related note, the ETA sharing feature of Google Maps that allows the app to share your navigation route in real time with friends arrived to iOS earlier. The feature has been accessible on the Android application since 2017. The advertisement of the feature shows some specific scenarios for ETA sharing, such as when you are planning a surprise party and require coordinating with the arrival times of partygoers. It is also just a useful and neat tool that can be used when you wish to know whereabouts of your friends. This is feature that has long been accessible on other navigation applications such as Citymapper and Waze.
The update also permits for ETA sharing all over 3rd-party apps such as Line, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp. The feature can be accessed by going to the ˄ button and then clicking “Share trip progress.” Journey sharing is accessible for users when you are navigating by walking, driving, and cycling, and it will automatically end once you get to your destination.
