Google Maps Adds Voice Guidance For Visually Impaired

Google Maps' voice guidance was built for people with impaired vision (via Google)

Google Maps is making it easier for blind and visually impaired users to get around on foot.

On Thursday (World Sight Day), Google updated its app with more detailed voice guidance and new verbal announcements for walking trips.

This marks the first feature in Google Maps to be built from the ground up by, and for, people with vision impairments.

“As a legally blind woman living in Tokyo, I know that getting around unfamiliar environments can be a challenge,” Google business analyst Wakana Suglyama wrote in a blog post.

“Going someplace new and unfamiliar can be an intimidating experience without sight to guide you,” she continued. “With this feature, I can navigate the streets of Tokyo with more comfort and confidence.”

As soon as you press “Go,” the app continually informs users that they’re on the correct path (and re-routes them if necessary), the distance to their next turn, and the direction in which they’re walking.

It even identifies large intersections, warning folks to cross with added caution.

“With detailed voice guidance in Google maps, my journey fades into the background and I can focus more on what I’ll do at my final destination,” Suglyama said. “This may not sound extraordinary to those with sight, but for people who are blind or have low vision, this can help us explore new and unfamiliar places.”

The new technology isn’t limited to the visually impaired: Google hopes it can also help folks struggling to put their phone down and have a screen-free experience.

“Similar to the announcements you might hear at crosswalks or on a bus, everyone can benefit from it,” according to Suglyama. “Not everyone will need this level of assistance, but it’s great to know it’s available and only a tap away.”

To turn on the feature, go to Google Maps settings and select “Navigation”; scroll down to enable “Detailed voice guide” (beneath the “Walking options” heading).

The function is rolling out to Android and iOS devices, available in English and Japanese, with support for additional languages and countries “on the way.” 

More on Geek.com:

• Google’s Lookout App Helps Blind Users Navigate Their Surroundings
• Google Maps’ AR Navigation Rolls Out to More Devices
• Google Maps Highlights Restaurants’ Most Popular Dishes

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