Google Maps Goes Multi-Modal

"Google Maps is adding a suite of new features designed to help users plan more efficient and less stressful commutes, including real-time information about potential delays and suggested alternate routes, the company announced in a blog post," reports Jason Plautz.

"The new tab will pull up traffic and transit information customized to the user’s normal commute. The app will also support multi-modal commutes — in 80 cities, the app will give information on the next train and bus, and a final estimated arrival time for a multi-step trip to let users know when they’ll arrive at the office," adds Plautz.

As noted by Plautz, this kind of functionality isn't necessarily new—but it is the first time one of the world's most popular navigation apps will have all of these resources in the same place.

Google has been making some serious product releases related to the planning field in recent months. An open data search tool and a carbon footprint calculator were both revealed in September of this year as well.