It appears that a visual overhaul of Google Maps is taking place, which you may have already noticed on your Android smartphone, and the new color scheme used on the maps makes the interface much more similar to Apple Maps.
Google hasn’t officially stated anything yet, but many users have raised the alarm on social media. At the moment, it’s not clear whether the new look is being tested or is here to stay.
Instead of white roads on a gray background, Google Maps has switched to gray roads on a white background, similar to Apple Maps. The blue of oceans and lakes has also lightened, reminiscent of the rival GPS app.
The greens are also darker, and the navigation uses a dark blue route arrow instead of a lighter blue one (which can turn yellow or red depending on traffic). The app has also modified the bottom bar, with a series of smaller tabs beneath the map.
Design change every three years: classic Google
As Ars Technica points out, we haven’t seen a visual refresh like this for Google Maps since 2020. The one before that was in 2017, so if this is indeed a permanent change, it would align with the timing of previous updates.
Not everyone has the update yet, according to Android Police, so it seems to be a staggered rollout that isn’t reaching all devices at the same time. If you don’t have it yet, try updating the Google Maps app on your phone.
Regarding the adoption of Apple Maps’ color scheme, it’s quite evident, but undoubtedly, focus groups led by both Apple and Google have arrived at similar conclusions about which colors work best for the human eye when it comes to maps.
Apps with a similar appearance also have another advantage for both Google and Apple: they make it easier for users to switch between apps.
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