Have you ever found, when using Google Maps, that the proposed route was not the most direct? This situation, more common than it seems, can be explained by the way the application itself works. Decryption.
Google Maps, the road companion for drivers
Google Maps has established itself as one of the most popular GPS navigators, especially among young drivers. However, some prefer alternatives like Waze. In any case, sometimes Google Maps does not offer the shortest route to reach two points. Why this choice ?
When you enter a destination, the app may suggest a route that is not the most direct. This is often explained by the detection of a problem on the apparently fastest route, such as:
In these situations, Google Maps diverts you to an alternative route that is longer but which its algorithms estimate is quicker to reach your destination.
A mystery that lasts even at night
However, even in the middle of the night, when traffic is at its calmest, Maps can force you to take a detour to connect two points. How to explain this phenomenon ?
First of all, you should know that Google Maps aims to offer you the quickest route. To do this, the application considers that it will take you longer to take the desired route and suggests an alternative that is certainly longer, but faster according to its ultra-precise calculations.
Next, Maps analyzes your driving habits. If you usually pass by a particular street, the application could consider it โusefulโ and integrate it into your routes, having detected that you use it regularly.
Take back control of your journey
If you're sure there are no traffic problems on your preferred route, you can change the route by tapping one of the gray alternatives, rather than the blue one.
You will be able to compare the estimated travel times for each option and, at the same time, indicate to Maps your preference for a given street in the absence of traffic.
Another option: go to Activity Controls in your Google account and, if necessary, turn off location history and web and app activity. Your results will no longer be personalized, but you will no longer have access to certain features such as the timeline.
Ultimately, if Google Maps doesn't always take you the shortest route, it's to optimize your travel time by taking into account a multitude of factors. An approach which, despite its imperfections, demonstrates the application's desire to offer you the best possible browsing experience.
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