Live View to bring easy-access augmented reality to Google Maps

Image: Google via AFP Relaxnews

Google is reportedly experimenting with a floating action button (FAB) that will allow for faster and easier access to the “Live View” function in its Maps application, reports specialist website 9to5Google.

Launched in 2019, the Live View function makes it easier to find your way around on foot in cities using augmented reality. The direction for the route you need to follow is displayed directly on the screen over live images of the surrounding street from the camera of your smartphone. News of the improvement follows on from Google’s pledge to develop the new tool.

In its most recent beta, Google Maps makes it easy to use Live View technology, which is made accessible via a floating action button in the center of the screen, whenever you search for a specific address.

When you tap the button, the phone’s display shows the distance to the destination as well as arrows indicating the direction to follow over live video from your phone’s camera. This new particularly intuitive tool promises to immediately help you find your bearings when you visit a new address for the first time. JB

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