Google Quietly Releases a Google Maps Interface Update, Copies Its Number One Rival

The search giant has updated the color palette in Google Maps to make everything on the screen easily distinguishable. The roads are now gray, and you can easily see them on the screen, while the water and vegetation, such as parks, use a mix of blue and green.

The new interface update rolls out gradually to Google Maps users, and others believe it could be just an experiment the search giant might eventually drop. However, the availability has allegedly increased lately, so I doubt it's just a test, with Google more likely to bring this updated design to everybody else eventually.

If you believe you've seen these brighter colors somewhere else, you're not alone. The new Apple Maps and its detailed city experience uses a similar approach, though the iPhone maker used hues that are clearly distinguishable, especially on the small screen of a mobile phone.

The changes are visible only in the light mode, as the dark visual style still uses the traditional look (though I believe Google would eventually introduce an updated color palette here, too).

The competition between Apple and Google in the mapping space is getting fiercer, especially as the iPhone maker is now more committed to making Apple Maps a fully featured Google Maps alternative.

The upcoming iOS 17 update will include support for offline maps, a feature available for several years in Google Maps. Offline maps have long been a top feature request in the Apple Maps user community, so Apple adding such functionality brings its platform in line with users' expectations. Eventually, the company could convince more users to stay on board, as some Apple Maps adopters switched to Google Maps for navigation without an Internet connection.

Apple Maps offline maps will allow driving, walking, and transit directions, and users must download the necessary data before starting navigation. The process works similarly to Google Maps, as users must define an area to download offline maps, getting automatic map updates when Apple Maps runs on the device.

iOS 17 will start rolling out later this month for the iPhone XS and newer. Owners of older iPhone models won't receive the update, meaning they won't get offline maps either. Apple will also announce additional Apple Maps updates, including new EV capabilities and deeper integration into the new-generation CarPlay. Apple's September 12 event could also witness a detailed look at CarPlay 2.0, with the company expected to announce the first carmakers and models to adopt the new system. The new CarPlay won't be available in existing car models, as it requires new hardware only offered on 2024 and later vehicles.