November 3, 2023, 10:05 am | Read time: 3 minutes
This feature has long been awaited on Google Maps in Germany, and now it has been officially announced: The speed limit feature in the app is currently being rolled out. TECHBOOK reveals all the important information about it.
Google Maps is one of the most widely used navigation apps on smartphones. Many features are already integrated, and more are being added. Recently, the U.S. company announced that the long-awaited display of speed limits in Google Maps is finally coming to Germany. The first users can already access the feature.
Speed Limit Display in Google Maps
In the U.S. and other countries, the speed limit display in Google Maps was launched years ago. People have long wondered when the feature would be available here. Google has now announced on its blog that the feature will be expanded to 20 more countries, including Germany, Poland, Austria, etc.
The update is overdue. While other apps or navigation systems can display your speed and the speed limit, this was not the case with Google Maps.
Read also: Google Maps now with a practical new feature for public transportation
Google Maps Receives Major Update for Navigation
“Why Does Google Keep Making Its Apps Worse with Each Update?”
How the Feature Works
Some users wonder how Google plans to integrate all speed limits into Google Maps. The company writes in another blog post that this will be done through artificial intelligence (AI) and the use of images.
To capture speed limits, Google plans to use its own Street View images and third-party image material. The company is also training its AI models on various types of signs. For example, if a sign is identified in an image, the GPS information is used to assign an exact location to the traffic sign. Additionally, Google intends to rely on data from local authorities if there is no signage.
But what happens if construction work is being done or there is a change in the speed limit? Google has a solution for this as well. The blog post states: “To solve this problem, Google Maps analyzes traffic trends to determine if there might be a change in the speed limit. For example, if our trends show that cars consistently drive below the maximum allowable speed, this could indicate that the speed limit has been lowered.”
If the speed limit changes temporarily, Google plans to compare the change with other sources, including Street View, and possibly inquire with local authorities.
Speed Limit Display Currently Being Integrated
In addition to the speed limit, a lane assistant is also being integrated into the app. This is especially useful on highways when things get confusing and you don’t immediately know which lane to switch to for the next exit.
The update is currently being integrated for Android, iOS, and cars with Google functionality. TECHBOOK editor Isa Kabakci already has the speed limit display available in the app.
Also interesting: How beautiful the maps in Google Maps look now
Even though the feature is very useful and further improves Google Maps, you should not blindly rely on the speed limits displayed in the app but always pay attention to the signage in traffic. This is especially important when there are temporary speed changes and Google has not updated them.