May 7, 2014 - 13:06 AMT
Google Maps rolls out app update to make travel easier

Google is rolling out an update to its Android and iOS Map apps, which includes several new features to make travel much easier, Digital Spy said.

The most significant addition to turn-by-turn navigation in the car is lane guidance, although the feature is limited to the US, Canada and Japan at present.

Drivers will be told whether they should stay in their current lane or move into another in preparation for an imminent road junction.

Google has also improved the way offline maps are saved - an update available in all regions - so that users can simply search for a desired area, tap on its place info sheet and select 'save map to use offline'.

Elsewhere, new filters have been added for browsing through restaurants, bars and hotels by opening hours, rating, price and more.

Those using public transport benefit from improved options too, meaning users can choose the time and date they leave with 'depart at' and even set their return journey to 'last train home' if they intend to return late.

Google Maps now also integrates data from the Uber app, meaning travellers can compare journeys and consider ride-sharing - although Uber is only available in London and Manchester, much of the US, and major cities in 33 other countries across the world at present.