How Google Maps uses AI tools for Improvement

Google Maps is a web mapping service launched by Google in February 2005. Since its launch 15 years ago, Google Maps has advanced from a tool to help people find their destination to a destination in and of itself. Two decades ago, location navigation was tough as people had to use physical maps and compass for finding directions which at times was not accurate. However, with the development in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), Google Maps received an update where it could map out the areas which lacked formal street signs and house numbers, by recognizing the handwritten building/ house numbers.
Nowadays, most people own smartphones which usually has Google Maps installed making movement easier. Moreover, AI helps in providing recommendations for locations nearby and instant traffic alerts such as whether the traffic along your route is heavy or light, an estimated travel time, and an estimated time of arrival (ETA). To predict what traffic will look like shortly, Google Maps analyses the historical traffic patterns for roads over time. For example, one pattern may show that the 280 freeway in Northern California typically has vehicles traveling at a speed of 65mph between 6-7 am, but only at 15-20mph in the late afternoon. It is then combined in the database of historical traffic patterns with live traffic conditions, using machine learning to generate predictions based on both sets of data.
Google has partnered with DeepMind, an Alphabet AI research lab, to improve the accuracy of its traffic prediction capabilities. “Our ETA predictions already have a very high accuracy bar we see that our predictions have been consistently accurate for over 97 percent of trips”, said Johann Lau, Product Manager, Google Maps.
Two other sources of information are important to make sure Google recommendations for the routes are best –authoritative data from local governments and real-time feedback from users. Authoritative data lets Google Maps know about speed limits, tolls, or if certain roads are restricted due to things like construction. “And incident reports from drivers let Google Maps quickly show if a road or lane is closed, if there’s construction nearby, or if there’s a disabled vehicle or an object on the road”, Google added. Real-time traffic information is predicted based on the information provided by the people using Google Maps on the road.
Furthermore, the Live View feature from Google is another addition to maps, which utilizes augmented reality to help users understand location. Some users have complained about a lack of specific directions when walking towards a location and a live feature developed through AI has addressed this problem. With an estimated 1 billion users around the world, Google Maps reinvention has begun with the application allowing users to post reviews and upload photos through which the audience can easily decide if the ambiance of the place is worth visiting or not.
Consequently, the use of AI and Machine Learning in Google Maps has made experience for users smoother than before.