Google Maps on Monday answered a frequent call to widen the coverage of its typical traffic layer. Previously limited to highways and other main routes, it now includes “arterial” roads, or larger main streets often connected to or otherwise near the highways. Google Maps Android users can still voluntarily contribute periodic location updates to help improve the data themselves.
Typical traffic lets users see conditions based on a particular day of the week and time to avoid rush hour or other exceptional factors by taking alternate routes.
The new data should be accessible both on the web and on any device that supports the traffic layer. Coverage is worldwide and doesn’t require any intervention, although Google hasn’t said if or when live traffic might be available for more areas.
