No one likes getting unintentionally lost or stuck in traffic, so luckily there are many navigation apps out there. No matter which smartphone you have, there are plenty of applications that you can use. Some of these apps are even able to tell you about road obstructions and where police are.
Navigation Apps: Popular Choices
Google Maps
By far, the most popular of the navigation apps is Google Maps. Around 70% of smartphone users report using this app. Google has mapped and photographed most of the world. Perhaps you have seen the Google Maps car drive by recording the street view images? Google keeps its maps up-to-date so it’s going to be quite accurate.
This app can also show you live traffic updates, which will help you avoid slowdowns. Another feature is that you can download a map of the area if you’re going to be using it in a place without service later. It also can show you information about restaurants, stores and gas stations. This enables you to know how to get there, what their hours are, the latest reviews, and contact information. Google Maps is available on both iOS and Android devices.
Apple Maps
Unlike Google Maps, Apple Maps is only available for iOS devices. Although not the most popular of the navigation apps, Apple Maps is certainly making improvements and catching up. Apple Maps has come a long way in updating their maps so that they are current. One difference is that Apple strives to focus on user privacy more than Google. Most of the app’s functions can be accessed without requiring the user to sign into an account.
Waze
Google Maps owns Waze now. It is a unique type of navigation app as it focuses on all of the drivers using the app to mark things along their route. They can make note of police, accidents, debris in the road, and many other things. This alerts other drivers who pass through the area, allowing them to have a safer driver experience. Waze is a very dynamic platform because users can constantly update it. The users even have the ability to update the gas prices at gas stations.
Mapquest
Believe it or not, Mapquest is still around! Navigation software has come a long way from when you used to go on Mapquest and print out directions. Mapquest has been adapting and has become one of the navigation apps. An interesting feature they have is updated, live cameras so you can view road conditions before leaving home.
There is a wide range of navigation apps available to help you get to your destination safely and quickly. So that you aren’t distracted while you’re driving, enter your destination before you start driving, and place it where it can be easily viewed. Try out several of the apps and see which one you like best before settling on one.