Google Maps has finally introduced a live speedometer for Android Auto users, filling a long-standing gap. The feature, already available on iOS, Android phones, and CarPlay, was curiously absent from Google's car dashboard platform. Now, with a limited rollout to beta testers, the speedometer appears next to the speed limit, changing to yellow or red if the driver exceeds the limit.
A long-awaited feature for Android Auto
The live speedometer in Google Maps is not entirely new. It was already present on Android and iOS versions, and Apple integrated it into CarPlay back in 2024. However, Android Auto was left behind, puzzling many motorists who use this platform. Google's decision to finally extend the feature to Android Auto is a significant step to unify the user experience across all devices. Users, who have long requested this feature, can now rely on immediate visual support to keep their speed in check without taking their eyes off the road.
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How the new Google Maps speedometer works
The speedometer appears as a floating icon on the Android Auto screen, showing the current vehicle speed next to the speed limit indicated on the map. If the driver exceeds the limit, the speedometer turns yellow for slight over speeding and red for a more significant excess. This visual alert system helps prevent fines and encourages safer driving. The functionality relies on GPS data and device-calculated speed, not the car's own speedometer signal, so a slight difference may occur. Google has also included customization options in the beta settings.
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Gradual rollout for beta program subscribers
Currently, the live speedometer is only available to Google Maps beta users through a server-side update. It is unclear when the feature will reach all users, but the testing phase suggests an official launch may occur in the coming weeks. Interested users can sign up for the Google Maps beta program on Android to try the new feature early. To activate it, after updating, go to app settings and look for 'Speedometer' under 'Navigation settings'.
The arrival of this feature on Android Auto is part of a broader trend of navigation app improvements. For example, the recent introduction of speedometers on other platforms highlights how much it was needed. For further reading, check out the article about Moonshot AI releases Kimi K3 sparking debate on US-China artificial intelligence leadership, another example of a tech update capturing attention. Additionally, the speedometer feature relies on standard GPS technology, explained in detail on Wikipedia.
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In summary, Google Maps is finally closing a gap that penalized Android Auto users. With the live speedometer, driving becomes safer and more informed, without the need for extra devices. It remains to be seen whether Google will extend the feature to stable versions soon, but the signal is clear: the company listens to user feedback and works to improve the driving navigation experience.
Source: https://www.androidauthority.com/google-maps-android-auto-live-speedometer-3689236
