Google Maps Tests New Sidebar Navigation

Google is testing a new thin sidebar navigation on the left side of the maps interface. The sidebar has the Google Maps pin icon, then the explore tab, then trips, saved places, contribute and a more icon.

This was spotted by Punit on Twitter and Mastodon where he posted a video of this new sidebar in action. Here is a screenshot followed by his videocast:

#NewTest
Google Map Testing "Explore" "Trips" "Saved" "Contribute" & "More" on left end column pic.twitter.com/Knd064FLEr

— Punit (@Punit6008) November 18, 2022

I personally do not see this interface yet but I am a fan of thin sidebar navigation. :)

Forum discussion at Twitter and Mastodon.

Update: Here is another variation:

Please add this in your story, new added "All Recents" pic.twitter.com/Yl9C4i7mXL

— Punit (@Punit6008) December 1, 2022

Update 2: Here is another video of it:

Looks like Google Maps (desktop) is testing a sidebar where it keeps a grouped history of the listings you clicked on.#localSEO @rustybrick pic.twitter.com/cauuqRKjsM

— Justin Mosebach (@jlmosebach) December 22, 2022