Google Maps is just a killer app for these Apple devices

Google Maps is just a killer app for these Apple devices

Google Maps has made two upgrades that will make it easier to get directions on the Apple Watch and Apple CarPlay dashboards.

On Monday, Google (via CNBC) announced that it will roll out a version of Google Maps that is more compatible with the Apple Watch. Soon, Apple Watch owners using the Google Maps app will be able to see turn-by-turn directions to their destinations on their wrists. This feature will work for walking, driving, biking, and public transportation routes.

Users will also be able to start a route in the Google Maps app for iPhone and continue real-time directions in the Watch version of the app.

This synchronicity already works with Apple's native Maps program, but Apple Watch users who love Google Maps (I am one of them) can take advantage of turn-by-turn directions.

The same is true for users who have Apple CarPlay in their cars: at the same time as the Apple Watch upgrade, Google said CarPlay's split-screen option will be compatible with Google Maps. This means that CarPlay users will be able to view media and other phone apps at the same time they follow their route.

Apple initially did not support third-party mapping apps with CarPlay, but as more automakers adopted the interface, they opened up their dashboards to the likes of Waze, which now supports Google Maps.

The latest Google Maps update for CarPlay will roll out on Monday, with an update for the Apple Watch starting in a few weeks.

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