Google Maps Discontinues: A Highly-Used Feature Bites the Dust
Crucial Google Maps Feature Vanishes, Sparking User Contraindance
Caught off-guard and royally pissed, Google Maps users on Android are left scratching their heads in bewilderment as a once coveted feature, Driving Mode, has mysteriously vanished from the latest app iterations.
Gone without so much as a "howdy partner," the distance meter has disappeared, leaving drivers frustrated and eyeballing Google like a hawk on the prowl. Is this a technical glitch or a calculated move? The big G's not exactly talking.
Navigating the Highways of Driving Mode
Last year, Google took a significant turn when it mothballed the Driving Mode server within the Google Maps app[1][2][3]. As a replacement, it introduced a voice control bar that allowed drivers to access messages, make calls, and play tunes sans needing a death grip on their smartphone.
Fast forward to today, and the latest versions of Google (16.14) and Maps (25.16.x) have all but dumped the driving mode. The handy voice control that used to make driving a breeze is now a distant memory.
Breaking the news is the U.S tech platform "9to5Google," which keeps an eye on whatever's happening with Google and Android. But Google has kept tight-lipped when asked to confirm whether the sleight of hand was an honest error or an intentional change.
Goodbye, Driving Mode - Hello, Gemini
In its place, Google is gearing up to integrate its AI model named Gemini more prominently into Android systems[1][2]. This brainiac is set to muscling into "Android Auto" and "Android Automotive" - systems designed for automotive environments.
More details about the AI integration shall be put forth during the upcoming Google I/O conference, slated for May 20-21, 2025, in California, USA [1][2]. Expect some radical changes, as the company promises to share juicy insights on planned AI features in mobile apps.
Temporary Detour - No Direct Alternative for Now
In the meantime, there's no clear replacement for the deprecated mode. Users are forced to endure the inconvenience of going without the familiar voice control. However, they can use the Assistant button in the top-right corner of Google Maps for voice commands [1].
Device notifications will keep you abreast of incoming calls and texts, while media playback controls can be accessed via Maps settings if enabled[1]. It's not pretty, but hey - it's the best we've got for now.
[1] 9to5Google - https://9to5google.com/google-maps-driving-mode-removal/[2] Android Police - https://www.androidpolice.com/google-maps-hiding-driving-mode/[3] The Verge - https://www.theverge.com/2021/2/16/22297063/google-maps-driving-mode-changes-new-features-wording-disputed-reactivate
- Users are especially concerned about the disappearance of the Driving Mode feature in Google Maps, as they have not been provided with a direct alternative yet.
- The ongoing developments at Google indicate that they are integrating their AI model, named Gemini, more prominently into Android systems, replacing or perhaps superseding some existing features.
- Google, however, has not clarified whether the removal of the Driving Mode feature was an intentional change or a technical glitch, leaving many users and tech enthusiasts seeking more information.
- While the disappearance of the Driving Mode feature has left a void in terms of convenient voice control while driving, users can still access voice commands via the Assistant button in the top-right corner of Google Maps, albeit it is not as streamlined.
