Google Maps is receiving more ride-hailing options based in the United States other than Uber, adding in Lyft and Gett into the mix.
In light of this development, it appears that Google Maps is now arguably the ultimate booking mobile app in town, as users can now get estimated waiting times and fares across the services all in one place at a tap of a button.
Coming straight from the horse's mouth, Google is spreading the word via a blog post, explaining how the new features will add convenience to users' everyday commute.
"Say you're looking to get from the High Line to Times Square in Manhattan. When typing these locations into the Google Maps app, you'll see a ride services tab appear alongside driving, transit and walking directions. Just tap the icon and you'll find fare estimates and pick up times from multiple ride service partners, depending on driver availability," Sara Torti, senior product manager of Google Maps, says.
She also notes that the app will also display specific services of each partner, pointing out that Lyft Line is accessible through it.
As mentioned earlier, these features aren't exactly new, as Google already launched them for Uber back in 2014. Yes, it has been that long already.
However, it's worth mentioning that Uber was reportedly investing $500 million to develop its own map system, and that means it will soon stop completely relying on Google Maps — that is, if all pans out for the ridesharing company.
For the record, the update is now live on both Android and iOS versions of Google Maps. While Lyft is gradually becoming available across the United States in locations where the service is supported, Gett is still limited to within New York City only — for now, at least.
To boil things down, with all these additions that makes everybody's lives a little bit easier, Google Maps is shaping up into one heck of a must-have app nowadays, as it saves time and shaves off some of the hassle.
On a related note, don't forget to check out our comparison between Uber and Lyft to find out how each one fares against the other.
With all said and done, what do you think of the app supporting more ridesharing services beyond Uber? Feel free to hit us up in the comments section below and let us know.
