Google has updated its Maps app for European users so that drivers will know which lane to drive in while going to work or visiting family.
The new feature, which the search giant calls "helpful lane guidance," is being made available for iOS and Android devices and suggests the best lane to get in for your trip, according to PC Magazine. The countries that are getting this feature are Spain, the U.K., Ireland, Germany, France and Italy.
Darren Baker, product manager for Google Maps, wrote in a blog post that lane guidance was included in the turn-by-turn navigation mode and shows which lane to stay in or move to so drivers can avoid missing their next turn or exit. This capability also helps drivers avoid "darting across traffic at the last minute."
"Or worse, driving for miles down the wrong road," Baker added.
Users will also be able to hear suggestions while driving by turning on voice guidance. Tips will also be available on the phone screen.
The update follows seven months after Google added lane guidance for major cities in the U.S., highways in Canada and non-highway roads in Japan, PC Magazine reported.
Lane guidance for European users is the most recent update Google Maps has received, with previous ones being integration with OpenTable for making reservations at restaurants, the addition of info sheets on places with photos and reviews, and getting a new color and design. Additional improvements weather forecasts and local times for different locations and a new display for alternate routes.
One additional feature planned for Maps in the future is the addition of high-resolution 3-D imagery, which Google said will initially be available to users in New York City and San Francisco, VentureBeat reported.
With lane guidance, Maps users in Europe will be able to avoid cutting off other motorists and enjoy a quick and safe drive. Other European countries are expected to eventually have access to this feature as well.
