Google has finally integrated Waze traffic data into the desktop version of Google Maps. The search giant purchased Waze back in June for nearly $1 billion, using Waze’s data to strengthen Google Maps. Google integrated Waze traffic reports in its mobile apps back in August of this year and has finally integrated it on the desktop.
To view traffic alerts from Waze. users have to enable the traffic layer in Maps and hover over an icon of a traffic alert to find out more. Some traffic alerts are sourced by Google while those pulled from Waze are clearly labeled.
There are other interface changes in the desktop version of Google Maps. The Pegman that you drag and drop to access Street View has been moved to the bottom right. Google recently integrated Google Earth data into Google Maps so users can browse a 3D, topographical layout of a city. This is similar to Apple’s Flyover feature in Apple Maps.
Google Maps is still in an experimental phase so new features and fixes are happening all the time. Many users still have not been updated to the new Google Maps, though the company has said it’s gradually rolling it out. The new Waze and Google Earth features may not work optimally for all as the features require newer hardware and certain browsers.
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Source: CNET