Google Maps will be launching new 'lite navigation' system for cyclists
A welcome update for cyclists from Google
Google have announced they will be launching a new 'lite navigation' system on their Maps app.
The new system will be focussed on helping cyclists navigate around wherever they want to go.
Lite Navigation is part of Google's new sustainability programme where they are pushing towards a greener way of life.
In the USA, Google Maps is now directing drivers on routes that have the best fuel efficiency. This can be adjusted if you prefer to take the faster route.
With Lite Navigation, though, cyclists will not be given the usual turn-by-turn instructions that you usually get in a car, for example, but rather cyclists will be given instructions about the route they are on which they would be able to glance at if they have their phones set up on their bars.
However, Google claim to have taken into account that cyclists may not have their phone on display.
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Much like normal navigation on Google Maps, the app will show your route and the estimated time of arrival, but also where a change of elevation is along the route. The notification bar will also have distance and the ETA as well as an option to share your route with others.
This means that you won't even need to unlock your phone to get the guidance about your route. This helps hugely as you will only need to glance at your phone.
Fortunately the voice guidance will still be there with more information about the route you will be riding.
Google say that this feature will not be available just yet and that we must wait for it to be launched in the "coming months."
It will be available for everyone that has cycling navigation on their Google Maps app already and on all devices, including iPhone and Android.
Tim Bonville-Ginn is a freelance writer who has worked with Cycling Weekly since 2020 and has also written for many of the biggest publications in cycling media including Cyclingnews, Rouleur, Cyclist and Velo.