Google Maps introduces ‘Motorcycle mode’

GOOD news two wheelers!

Google Maps has reportedly introduced a motorcycle function to the latest version of its app, allowing motorcyclists to more accurately calculate journey times.

However, at present it appears this update is only for India, launched as part of Google's 'Google for India' initiative. Androidpolice.com reported that the motorcycle function has emerged in v9.67.1– the most recent version available.

As with any other mode of transport, motorcycle mode works to find the best, most efficient route possible, also noting road closures and parking availability at the destination.

Launching the function in India makes sense as not only is the world’s largest two-wheeler market, but it also features many smaller, poor condition roads that are inaccessible to cars.

An official Google blog explaining the "Google for India' plan stated:

'Another India-first feature is the new “two-wheeler mode” in Google Maps. India is the largest two-wheeler market in the world, and the millions of motorcycle and scooter riders have different navigation needs than drivers of automobiles.

'Two-wheeler mode in Maps shows trip routes that use “shortcuts” not accessible to cars and trucks. It also provides customized traffic and arrival time estimations.

'And since so many Indians rely on local landmarks for navigation, two-wheeler mode will show major landmarks on the route so that riders can plan their trip before starting, and don’t have to keep checking the phone on the go.

'Two-wheeler mode is launching in India today, to be followed by more countries in the coming months.'

There’s no word on whether this function will come to Europe or the UK, but it would certainly come in useful.

At the same time, navigation app Waze has announced its own 'motorcycle mode’, which will provide optimised directions based on actual motorcyclists’ experience, again with guidance potentially using roads where cars can’t go.

This new feature will be introduced globally on the Waze app.