Google Maps is getting this Apple Maps feature – Times of India

As the first step of its immersive view experience, Google has introduced the aerial view to Google Maps. The feature ‘photorealistic aerial view’ of around 100 popular landmarks in Barcelona, London, New York, San Francisco and Tokyo. Google’s aerial view is quite similar to Apple Maps‘ 3D flyover view.
Google Maps’ aerial view is the first step to the immersive view
In a recent blog post from Amanda Leicht Moore, Director of Product, Google Maps says that aerial views are the first step towards the immersive view, announced back at I/O this year. Moore further adds that immersive view is an experience that pairs AI with Street view and aerial imagery.
To see an aerial view of a landmark, you need to open Google Maps on your smartphone and search for landmarks such as Big Ben, Empire State Building or Alcatraz Island. Now, scroll down to the photos section, where you will find the aerial view showing a 360-degree aerial view of that monument.
The aerial view is rolling out globally and will be available for both IOS and Android.
Google Maps cycling navigation will show a much more detailed route info
There are a few updates too. Google Maps is getting improved cycling navigation with detailed routing info showing if there is heavy car traffic, stairs or steep hills in the route. Google Maps will also show you the type of road you will take– whether it is a major road or a local street. The new cycling navigation will be made available for Google Maps users in hundreds of cities in the coming weeks.
Location sharing also gets an update
Lastly, location sharing is becoming smarter. So, now, if someone is sharing their location with you, you will get a notification when they arrive at the set destination. Further, you will get a notification if they leave the place without telling you. Google says the feature works only for someone you share your location with. You can choose to stop sharing your location if you want.