A major update for the app, Google Maps appears in the Google Play store, sporting a revamped interface with livelier colors and new discovery features. The update hasn’t appeared on the devices yet, but Google has said that it will roll out to Android 4.0.3+ users over the next few weeks.
Besides a cleaner design, the interface gives better navigational features, including live traffic updates, and dynamic rerouting. It also includes an Explore function to help users browse different shops and local restaurants.
Talking about acquisitions, the update sports features Google would have picked up $1.1 billion with Waze last month. However, the deal is too new to allow engineers to integrate the map-app maker’s features with that of Google. It’s acquisition of the Israel-based startup has also attracted the antitrust interest of U.S. Federal Trade Commission, which can examine deals even after they close.