Google Maps is testing interface with categories of local search suggestions

New Google Maps interface on Android shows category selections based on where you're viewing the map.

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Android Police reports Google is testing a new Google Maps interface for Android showing category search suggestions based on where you are looking at the map.

At the top of the map interface, there are search suggestions that show several categories:

  • Restaurants.
  • Cafes.
  • Supermarkets.
  • Gas stations.
  • Pharmacies.
  • Hospitals.

Here is a screen shot from the blog:

Google Maps Floating Categories

It seems these categories are fairly generic, but it would be neat if Google showed more personalized and localized search options based on where you are looking at the map.

Again, this is a limited test. I am unable to replicate this behavior myself.


About the author

Barry Schwartz
Staff
Barry Schwartz is a Contributing Editor to Search Engine Land and a member of the programming team for SMX events. He owns RustyBrick, a NY based web consulting firm. He also runs Search Engine Roundtable, a popular search blog on very advanced SEM topics. Barry can be followed on Twitter here.

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