Google has released a software update for their Google Maps app, the latest update adds data for COVID-19 to the app.
The updated app now comes with a Covid layer which will show you the Covid data for a specific area for the past seven days.
When you open Google Maps, tap on the layers button on the top right hand corner of your screen and click on “COVID-19 info”. You’ll then see a seven-day average of new COVID cases per 100,000 people for the area of the map you’re looking at, and a label that indicates whether the cases are trending up or down. Color coding also helps you easily distinguish the density of new cases in an area. Trending case data is visible at the country level for all 220 countries and territories that Google Maps supports, along with state or province, county, and city-level data where available.
Enhanced Features for Better Decision Making
This new feature is designed to help users make more informed decisions about their movements and travel plans. By providing real-time data on COVID-19 trends, Google Maps aims to offer a valuable tool for those who need to navigate through areas with varying levels of COVID-19 cases. For instance, if you are planning a trip to another city or state, you can quickly check the COVID-19 situation in that area and decide whether it is safe to travel. This is particularly useful for essential workers, travelers, and anyone who needs to move between different regions frequently.
Moreover, the color-coded system makes it easy to understand the severity of the situation at a glance. Areas with a high number of cases are marked in dark red, while those with fewer cases are marked in lighter shades. This visual representation helps users quickly assess the risk level of different areas without needing to delve into complex data.
Global and Local Data Availability
One of the standout features of this update is its extensive coverage. Google Maps provides COVID-19 data for all 220 countries and territories that it supports. This includes detailed information at the state or province level, county level, and even city level where data is available. This granularity ensures that users can get the most relevant information for their specific location.
For example, if you are in the United States, you can see not only the national trends but also the specific data for your state, county, and city. This localized data is crucial for understanding the immediate risks in your vicinity and taking appropriate precautions. Similarly, users in other countries can benefit from this detailed data to stay informed about the COVID-19 situation in their local areas.
In addition to the COVID-19 layer, Google Maps continues to offer other useful features such as real-time traffic updates, public transit information, and local business details. The integration of COVID-19 data into this already robust platform makes it an even more indispensable tool for daily navigation and planning.
You can find out more details about the updated version of Google Maps over at Google at the link below.
Source Google
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