Google Maps Adds Shortcut to Find Out How Traffic Is In Your Area

Android: For many of us, Google Maps has long-since replaced radio shows for finding out about traffic on your way home. Now, Google’s making it easier with a home screen shortcut to see the state of traffic around you.

As Android Police discovered, there’s a new 1×1 shortcut you can add to your home screen. When you tap it, you’ll be taken to a screen like the one above that shows traffic conditions in your surrounding area. Unlike using Navigation, this will show traffic in all directions, rather than just on your route. It’s a small change, but it can be handy to check before you head out.

Google Maps v9.39 adds a handy traffic widget and hints at live data about busy places | Android Police