Google Map Sources COVID-19-Related Information From The Johns Hopkins University, Among Other Sources.
NEW COVID-19 LAYER IN GOOGLE MAPS
The new feature would allow users to select a ‘COVID-19 overlay’. Jane shared screenshots showing data from the United States and some European countries; specifically how many new cases have been reported per 10 000 people.
We’re not sure if this feature will be rolled out in South Africa. However, it would be a useful way to get a sense for how present the infection still is in certain parts of the country; and whether new cases are on the increase.
The information is deployed in its new layer through Machine Learning and other complex algorithms.
COVID-19 TESTING CENTRES
In a previous update, Google Map added a feature to help users avoid crowded places and find COVID-19 testing centres in selected countries. A global rollout was slated during 2020.
Google announced back in June that alerts about important COVID-19 travel-related information will show up in the apps. Google said it would “help prepare accordingly if government mandates impact transit services”.
COVID-19 ALERTS
In addition, Google will also be rolling out driving alerts to notify commuters about COVID-19 checkpoints and restrictions along your route; when crossing borders, for example.
Google will also display an alert reminding you to verify eligibility and facility guidelines before heading out to a medical facility; “to avoid being turned away or causing additional strain on the local healthcare system”.
Medical facility-related alerts were rolled out in Indonesia, Israel, the Philippines, South Korea, and the US today. However, the service will be introduced in other countries in due course.
This news was originally published at thesouthafrican.com