Google Maps: New function to warn against taxi rip-offs and increase security
from David Wurm 
on June 12, 2019, 12:15 pm | Write a comment
Google is constantly developing one of the most popular navigation apps, namely Google Maps. A new function has now been announced, which on the one hand should increase safety when taking a taxi and be easy on the wallet. The function is now starting in India for the first time.
When you hear the word “taxi”, you think of your wallet for a reason. Taxi drivers don't always take the shortest route - and some are also concerned about safety when driving. Google is aware of this Problem is well known and has now given its navigation app an update, like XDA Developers reports. You can start a taxi ride in Google Maps and get a notification when the driver deviates from the route. If this distance is more than 500 meters, the smartphone then issues a warning message.
More security in the taxi through live tracking
Of course, one could now also think that one could simply run Google Maps. However, each time the route deviates, it is recalculated – but not with this function. Here you always see the shortest route. In addition, this function has a practical extension: you can also activate live tracking by friends. If you're afraid to take a cab alone, you can send a link to friends - they can then track where you are on the map. In an emergency, they could then call for help.
This is what the new function looks like in the app. (Image: xda developers)
The new function is in the same menu as when starting route guidance. There you will find the “Stay safe” button next to “Start” and “Details”. If you click the latter button, you can activate a notification when you go off the route and live tracking by friends.
Driving services such as Uber have already integrated such a function into their apps – for more security and to prevent rip-offs. Not infrequently, as a stranger in a city, one is excluded by detour routes. However, it will definitely take a few weeks or even months before the function appears with us. Until then, you can still run Google Maps on your smartphone during a taxi ride.
