Google cleans up Maps, paints interesting spots orange
Google has made several changes to its Maps app on iOS, Android and in the browser, including a new, cleaner look, a slightly different color scheme and a new feature that highlights the most interesting spots around you.
Called "areas of interest," these spots will be painted a pale orange, and will appear automatically as you browse the map.
In a blog post announcing the feature Monday, Google explained that these areas are chosen with algorithmic processes -- the app will automatically figure out the highest density of restaurants, bars and shops. In certain high-density areas, such as the New York City, Google says it will use a "human touch" to show the most active areas. Check out how the feature works in the video, below.
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As for the new Maps visuals, the changes are subtle, as seen in the comparison below. Google says it has removed unnecessary elements from the map, one example being road outlines. The typography of street names and various points of interest on the map has also been improved. However, it appears fewer street names are being shown in the new Maps, which might not be an improvement for everyone.
Finally, Google also changed the Maps' color scheme, which now does a better job of differentiating between man-made and natural features. It should also help you identify important points of interest, such as hospitals and schools, more easily. Check out the new color scheme below.
Topics Google
Stan is a Senior Editor at Mashable, where he has worked since 2007. He's got more battery-powered gadgets and band t-shirts than you. He writes about the next groundbreaking thing. Typically, this is a phone, a coin, or a car. His ultimate goal is to know something about everything.
