Google has announced a new version of Google Maps for Android and iOS devices, adding a new Explore function that lets you find interesting spots near your location.

Located in the bottom right corner of the app, the Explore button gives you an overview of what’s nearby. It’s not only location-sensitive — the feature also pays attention to the context, meaning you’ll get different results depending on the time of day and the weather.

To get the best results, you need to have both location reporting and history turned on.

And to find out more about a location, Android owners can tap on the “My Location” button at the bottom right or on the blue dot on the map and get info such as restaurant reviews and transit schedules.

Google claims the app learns from you, so the location experience should improve as you confirm the places you visit.

The new features, which will roll out to users this week, follow a massive update to Google Maps in May. That update brought better offline maps, lane guidance and integration with Uber.

It all sounds a lot like Foursquare and Yelp, which both let you explore nearby locations, check in and read reviews. However, Foursquare plans a big update soon — sans check-ins. It’ll be interesting to see how these apps stack up against each other after this string of updates.

 

Author: Stan Schroeder
Source: Mashable