No one knows when this coronavirus situation is going to end. The pandemic has grasped two-third of the world into its clutches. Thereby, forcing individuals to stay at home to limit the spread of infection. But there are many who rely on takeout and delivery. To help these people Google Maps introduces two new features.
What are the features and how will they help?
For people depending on takeaway and delivery for their meals, Google Maps is now highlighting nearby stores that offer delivery/takeout. These options will help find local stores.
Takeout and Delivery shortcuts will work just like Maps shortcuts for the gas station, restaurant, coffee shop, etc. and you can find them alongside these options.
Tapping on the Takeaway option will list restaurants providing takeaway. Similarly tapping on the Delivery option will show a list of restaurant delivery in your area. Both these options will make your job of finding places to get food delivered easily.
Once you tap on either of the options Google search will look for delivery and takeout keywords in local business listings. Upon getting the results it will show them you in a list form.
In what countries and devices are these options available?
Both takeaway and delivery options are available to users in the US, India and other parts of the world. It doesn’t matter if you are using Android or iOS you can access these options as it is available on both platforms.
Is this a new option?
Takeout options have been there in Google Maps for quite a while but it was hidden. Now to make it easily accessible, the company is showing it on the home screen.
Has Google launched any other features to help people during COVID-19?
Yes, to help people in a panic due to novel coronavirus outbreak Google Maps provides COVID-19 warning when people search for medical stores. Clicking on the brief warning message redirects users to the official CDC site for directions.
- As many businesses shut down temporarily, Google Maps show temporarily close options for these businesses. To learn how businesses can mark a location as temporarily closed Google has created a new support page with instructions.
- Google also announced the launch of a new tool known as COVID-19 COmmunity Mobility Reports, to offer detailed information about various aspects.
Not only this, but Google is also donating $6.5 million to fight misinformation. All this and a lot more has been done by companies to help fight coronavirus. Now it’s unto us how we take it and keep ourselves secure.
Don’t think you are alone in this. We all are together in it. If you have anything to share and are unable to find anyone to talk please do leave us a comment. We are hearing and are with you in this fight.
Stay home Stay Safe.