Google Maps is updating the Fused Orientation Provider (FOP) API to improve directional accuracy in crowded areas. The update combines gyroscope, accelerometer and magnetometer data, reducing magnetic interference and taking advantage of Google Maps and third-party apps on Android 5.0 or higher.
We constantly hear about
Google Maps
A colossal failure from all over the world that has directed people in a strange direction and ultimately left them stuck in a “worst case scenario”. Now, a new post published on the Android Developers blog offers insight into Maps getting a new update
to update
For the better with directions.
The post talks about a possible upgrade that the maps will receive with
Fusible Steering Provider
(FOP) API which aims to improve “orientation” detection on Android devices, regardless of the hardware used by different OEMs on their devices.
According to the post, the update will make Maps better interpret directions to make them more accurate by combining gyroscope, accelerometer, and magnetometer data.
However, the idea of Google using data from all sensors is not new – the company has used the API before, but the update will improve magnetic interference. According to the post, the changes will apply not only to Google Maps, but also to third-party apps that rely on Google Maps to provide navigation data.
It should be noted that the update will be done through the internal parts of Google Maps, and it will not affect the user interface or layout of the application. also,
Updated API
It will be rolled out server-side or via app update in Android devices running Android 5.0 or above.
How will this affect users?
As we mentioned, the update will not change anything regarding the design of the app or the user interface. The changes are internal in the form of an Application Programming Interface (API) which will be automatically pushed via the update. However, the update is set to improve directions, especially in crowded areas.
