The latest Google Maps for Android update (9/16) contains a small but important change that isn’t mentioned on the change log: the direction arrow, which represents the user’s position on the map along with their bearing, has turned into a flashlight-like blue beam.
What’s more, the beam shines more narrowly depending on the accuracy of the compass at the moment. A wide beam means that the compass needs calibration; luckily, in reporting the change, the Google Lat Long blog shows readers an easy way to do this regardless of device.
[aditude-amp id="flyingcarpet" targeting='{"env":"staging","page_type":"article","post_id":2059557,"post_type":"story","post_chan":"none","tags":null,"ai":false,"category":"none","all_categories":"bots,mobile,","session":"A"}']All that’s required to perform the calibration is to make a figure-eight motion in the air, holding the device and rotating it slightly throughout the movement. The animated GIF below provides a demonstration.
AI Weekly
The must-read newsletter for AI and Big Data industry written by Khari Johnson, Kyle Wiggers, and Seth Colaner.
Included with VentureBeat Insider and VentureBeat VIP memberships.
The hope is that this new feature will improve orientation accuracy while also speeding up the user’s ability to gauge the direction they’re facing with just a glance.
VentureBeat's mission is to be a digital town square for technical decision-makers to gain knowledge about transformative enterprise technology and transact. Learn More