Google announced that they have updated Google Maps with a new design. They made the top cleaner and bluer. But with that, they removed some features that really make Google Maps users upset.
Last night, I saw the new Google Maps interface, but this morning, it seems like Google reverted back to the older interface. Why?
A Google Groups thread announced the update and has a lot of criticism from users. Here are the main problems users are citing:
- You can no longer reorder your destinations
- You can no longer collapse the details of each destination
- The driving miles & estimated drive time have also gone missing when searching multiple destinations
Google Maps Guide did say some of these are just temporarily missing:
Don't worry...you'll still be able to drag destinations in the left panel. The only difference is you'll use the little green circles in the "launcher" area where you input each address. I understand that this functionality isn't working properly for everyone, and I've escalated these issues to the appropriate parties. They're taking a look to find out what's going on. I'll keep you posted.
But interestingly enough, Google Maps now is the old yellow version now. Maybe they decided to revert back until they get the blue version working with the features above?
Here is a list of the new features in the blue version, in case you missed it:
- You can perform all types of searches using the single search box at the top of the page
- The "Get Directions" link is now in the left panel, right underneath the Google Maps logo
- You can collapse the left panel by clicking on the double arrow ( << ) that appears in the upper left-hand corner of the map view.
Forum discussion at Google Groups.
