Google Maps’ “Driving Mode” could be killed off early 2024

If you use Google Maps while driving, you may or may not be familiar with the Driving Mode feature. This is basically a “safer” option to use Google Maps while driving as it allows users to interact with the app using voice commands.

Now according to a report from 9to5Google, it looks like Google could be killing off the feature in 2024.

This is based on an APK teardown in which they have discovered some code strings that basically prompt users and informs them that Driving Mode will be going away in February 2024. It also mentions that users who wish to use their voice to control the app and other features on their phones should turn to Google Assistant in a string that says, “To call, message, or play media while navigating, tap the mic to use Assistant.”

Either way, assuming that Assistant can do everything that Driving Mode can, it won’t be a huge change for Google Maps users. It will also be safer since while driving, you should really focus on the road and what’s ahead of you, instead of fiddling around on your smartphone.

We imagine that some users will probably miss this feature, but we’ll have to wait and see if Google really kills it off come February next year.

Source: 9to5Google