Google Maps Trials Wheelchair Accessible Routes

Google Maps has introduced wheelchair-accessible transit routes, trialling the service in London, New York, Tokyo, Mexico City, Boston, and Sydney.

While a raft of app developers have produced navigation and mapping platforms to cater to those with mobility needs, the search giant’s impending roll-out of this feature is a significant benefit due to all the existing functionality that Google Maps already provides.

Google developed the new feature in conjunction with public transport agencies in the cities involved in the initial rollout, along with crowd-sourced accessibility information that it has been collecting from users, and 200 meet-ups organised by local guides to add accessibility information to maps.

The service is accessible as a route option after public transport is selected as a mode for navigation, and presents a list of accessible routes between two selected points. Google said that they have additionally captured Street View vision of public transport stations and city centres so that users can preview these locations ahead of their journey.

Google plans to work with public transport agencies worldwide to expand the service in the coming months.