Google Maps now clearly indicates stairs in walking directions using a blue icon directly on the route line, providing a significant improvement for pedestrians.
This feature helps users anticipate and potentially avoid routes with stairs, building upon last year's addition of wheelchair-accessible routes. The previous stair indicators were less prominent, appearing only on the map layer rather than integrated into the directions overlay. Learn more about Google Maps updates.
This update also benefits users with strollers, luggage, or other mobility needs. Google Maps already notes stairs in bicycling directions and offers wheelchair-accessible routing options in settings under "Trip options."
Key Improvements:
- Clear stair indicators on the directions line.
- Enhanced accessibility for pedestrians with various needs.
- Builds upon existing accessibility features like wheelchair-accessible routes.
The new stair callouts rolled out earlier this month. For more information on Google Maps and related features, check out November 2024 Google System Update Highlights and Redesigned Google Drive File Picker for Android.