> Google Maps has real time traffic data and the accuracy is staggering.
But does Google Maps use real time traffic data to calculate the most optimal route in the same way as Waze does? As I understand, that's the main difference between the two.
But does Google Maps use real time traffic data to calculate the most optimal route in the same way as Waze does? As I understand, that's the main difference between the two.
Google Maps' UI is tuned to show you alternatives and their ETA, and it's up to you to take them or not - Waze will just update routes without user input.
Anecdotally in the UK I see Google Maps routing based on live traffic data. I also often get a reassurance notification "you are on the fastest route despite traffic" (and it distinguishes between "traffic" and "usual traffic"). Occasionally I'll also get a recommendation pushed to switch to another route which is faster
At points where there are multiple route options it will indicate how many minutes faster or slower each option is.
We like to think of all the NIMBY's and school streets but these types of "shortcuts" suggested by mapping apps is also what sometimes leads people into dangerous neighborhoods and tragic consequences.