Google set to unveil Maps redesign, looks like Apple Maps

[springsup]

Hey!

It seems that Google are preparing a visual overhaul of their Maps. The pictures people have found are low-res JPEGs, but you can tell it definitely looks much more like Apple's Maps.

Here you go:




Full credit to the original source:

http://googlesystem.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/new-google-maps-interface.html

 

[ugahairydawgs]

Google has definitely gotten a lot less utilitarian with their design as of late. I'm sure that is welcomed thing for people who use a lot of Google services.

 

[springsup]

The Verge corroborates the story.

There seems to be a much bigger emphasis on typography and the styles of text have been changed to more closely resemble Apple's Maps. It looks like the label density may have changed, too.

That's a shame. I think Apple's Maps aren't smart enough about which labels they hide and which they show; in Europe, city centres are usually built around major railway stations (for obvious historical reasons). They should stick out at lower zoom levels so you get more of a picture of how the city is laid out.

Every map is going to be unique - which means that POIs and so on are going to be based on all that information Google's collected about you. I think it also means they're using vector maps in the browser.

 

[NT1440]

Does this mean they've finally moved on from their tile based scheme (which was groundbreaking at the time) to the vector based maps that are much easier for our mobile devices to handle (while at the same time providing a better experience in terms of area you can scroll without waiting for tiles to load)?

If so, good on Google.

 

[Aspasia]

Gotta note this: tried using Google Maps to pinpoint a client's address. Google told me there was no such address. Called the client to confirm I had the right info (I did). Tried Apple Maps and it immediately found the location.

Not the first time this has happened, so, no thanks, Google.

 

[alexjholland]

Google Maps can do what they like, but until I can re-name bookmarks on the iPhone app, their program is dead to me.

Syncing with Maps in our Google account would be good also.