Source: Android Central
Table of Contents
What you need to know
- Google has a number of travel-related features that it's highlighting for holiday travel.
- Some of the features are already available, like a dedicated COVID-19 layer for Google Maps.
- There are some new features, like a Trips tab for tracking past travels.
As the COVID-19 pandemic begins to see another surge in cases, Google expects some 40% of Americans plan to travel during the holidays and has highlighted some features, a few of which are new, that are aimed at helping users stay safe. The company has already added a COVID-19 layer to Google Maps, which shows trends in cases by country, state, and even county.
Source: Google
One of Google's new features will allow users to check on any possible travel restrictions for potential holiday destinations, in addition to a filter for hotels that are offering free cancellations in case travel plans change, the latter of which was added earlier this year. Another handy feature is the ability to check up on hotels' cleaning and sanitation procedures. Google is working with hotels to provide this information, which they can do through Google's business tools. Other alerts include driving checkpoints and updates to local transit mandates.
Shop some of Black Friday's best deals from around the web NOW!
Source: Google
In an effort to aid in contact tracing, Google, along with Apple, has already developed a contact tracing API which local and state governments can use to develop and roll-out apps on both iOS and Android. In addition to this new API, a feature called "Trips" is being rolled out on Google Maps Timeline (above).
This allows users to take a look at past trips they've taken, as well as modes of transportation and itineraries that could include hotel stays. This could make it much easier for users to retrace their steps in case of potential exposure. This feature will be expanded upon in the Photos app, which will soon let users see their photos grouped by location, as well as a timeline of the photos taken.
Put simply, Google is putting as many tools in the hands of users to ensure safe travels, as we all work to mitigate the impact of the global pandemic. And for those of you who are travelling, you wouldn't wanna be caught without some of these useful travel accessories as well.
Google Pixel 5
At roughly half the price of other flagship smartphones, the Pixel 5 is one of the best and most accessible phones of the year, offering most people everything they want and nothing they don't.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more
These are the best games you can play on Android
We're rounding up the best games, free and premium, you should be playing today.
When will my phone get Android 11?
There's a lot to look forward to with Android 11, but when will your phone actually get it? Here's everything we know!
A mid-range Chromebook is still a better buy than the new MacBook Air
Apple looks to have done a great job transitioning the Mac to ARM and I'm really interested in what's new. But a great mid-range Chromebook saves you a ton of dough and you'll get just as much use from it.
Need to upgrade your entertainment stand to fit the PS5?
The new generation PlayStation is kind of a chonky boy. Your current entertainment stand may not have the space for it, but here are some great options if you need to upgrade.
