Google Maps now shows how busy places are in real time. This new feature is called Real-Time People Flow. It uses anonymous location data from users who turn on the feature. The goal is helping people avoid crowds.
(Google Maps Real-Time People Flow)
The tool updates every few minutes. It displays current crowd levels at shops, parks, and transit hubs. Green means few people are there. Yellow means moderate crowds. Red means very busy.
This helps users plan trips better. Someone can check a supermarket before leaving home. A commuter can see if a train platform is packed. Travelers might avoid jammed tourist spots.
Privacy protections are in place. Google aggregates data so no individual is tracked. The system only works where many users share location history. Exact numbers of people are never shown.
Real-Time People Flow is active in over 100 cities worldwide. London, Tokyo, and New York are included. Google plans to add more locations soon. The update is free for all smartphone users.
Business owners cannot pay to change their crowd status. The information comes directly from public movement patterns. Google says this makes the tool reliable.
The feature builds on existing busyness charts. Those showed typical crowds based on past data. Real-time updates give more immediate help. This is especially useful during holidays or events.
Users must enable location history to contribute data. They can turn it off anytime. Google emphasizes user control over personal information.
The technology helps during health emergencies too. Crowd avoidance supports social distancing. This was tested during recent virus outbreaks.
Local governments have shown interest. They see benefits for managing public spaces. Transit agencies also welcome the tool. It might reduce peak-hour congestion.
(Google Maps Real-Time People Flow)
Google Maps remains a top navigation app. This update strengthens its usefulness. Competitors offer similar features but lack Google’s scale. Real-time crowd data is becoming standard for maps.