Google Maps May Be Working On a COVID-19 Tracking Feature

 

Google  Company has been doing a admirable job of providing as much data as it can during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Google is found to adding a new feature to its maps platform, where it specifies the severity of COVID-19 cases in particular region. Named as COVID-19 Info. The new layer will be applied over maps to determine the latest cases in a certain region  with increasing or decreasing tag. This could be useful tool for planning trip, as you will be able to know if there are any hotspots where you are going or anywhere  along your route.

The new Google Maps layer was discovered by known leaker @wongmjane on Twitter and reported on by 9to5Google. 

Google Maps looks to feature the new layer alongside the other layers within the app.You will see options for transit, traffic, biking, 3D, street view and the new COVID-19 layer.

Once the layers is turned on, you will see more sharp lines, between states in the US and then highlighted areas where outbreaks are worse. It appears that Google is grabbing data from Wikipedia, The New York Times, Johns Hopkins University and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to fill in its COVID-19Maps.

Notably the feature is seen working in US and Canada . However since, the data is sourced from India's Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation(BMC), we expect to be available in other regions including India soon. 

We don't know when  Google will  officially roll out this new Google Maps layer.  As it appears to be in the testing phase.Hopefully we will soon get an official roll out of the feature.