Google’s new Maps API lets developers follow the road for smoother routes

Google has announced its new Google Maps Roads API that allows developers to create better route visualizations in their apps from raw GPS data by following actual roads.

The new API fixes the problem of GPS jitter, wherein apps display odd routes that pass through obstructions like buildings and medians when tracking a user’s location while on the move, due to either inaccurate or insufficient GPS data.

The Roads API includes a snap-to-road feature which takes this data and returns paths that conform to the most likely roads taken by the user.

The new functionality will find use in navigation and automobile diagnostics apps. An example in Dash’s connected driving app shows how the Roads API provides clearer and more accurate directions using the same raw data.

The snap-to-read feature is free for up to 2,500 queries a day. In addition, paid Google Maps API developers can get speed limit data for the routes they display in their apps.

Google has also made sample code and documentation available for developers to check out.

➤ Google Maps welcomes the new Roads API [Google Geo Developers Blog]

from jushiung1 http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheNextWeb/~3/4Pceag6g3ug/

via IFTTT