Thanks to the latest integration of Google Maps with Uber, users can now book rides, complete it and pay for it, all through Google Maps itself. So users can now book cabs without having to install the Uber app on their smartphones to be able to make user of its services. This feature will be available to users across Android and iOS devices. Since this feature is being rolled out globally, there is no word as yet as to when it will be available in India.
When you log in to Google Maps and enter your destination, the app shows you the the various means of transport that you can take to reach your destination such as walking, by car, or by bus. In addition to these, users will also be shown an option for cabs, as per last year’s update. However, with this new update, users will now not be redirected to the app, but will be able to complete their ride from the Google Maps app itself. Do note, however, that for this feature to work, the user will need to log into their Uber account once initially. According to Google, users can now even track driver on the map and call him up. This service is currently available only with Uber though.
Google made this announcement in a blog post on Thursday. “Instead of a long list of ride service providers and ride options, you’ll see the map you know and love, along with a carousel of ride service providers in your area,” Sara McKinley Torti, Senior Product Manager at Google wrote explaining the new changes. “Just tap on your preferred provider to see a complete list of ride options and special offers or promotions.”
