The quality of the air around us plays a very important role that maybe some of us take for granted. Bad air quality, like if there’s too much pollution, can have adverse effects on people with breathing difficulties or lung issues. Even if you’re healthy, breathing in too much bad air can also lead to health complications.
The thing is, how do you know if the air is bad outside? Sometimes it isn’t so obvious, but the good news is that if you use Google Maps, Google has recently pushed out an update to its iOS and Android apps where it will now be able to show users the air quality around their area.
According to Google, the data they’re using comes from sources like the Environmental Protection Agency in the US, as well as PurpleAir, a network of sensors that help provide a more hyperlocal view. Google had actually previewed this feature back in 2021, so it’s good to see that it has finally arrived.
Google also notes that users living in the US will also be able to view this information on their Nest devices. So, the next time you plan to take a hike or an outdoor run, you can quickly and easily pull up air quality information on Google Maps to decide if today might be a good day for strenuous outdoor activity.
Source: Google