A Long-Awaited UI Update

For quite some time, users have noted a peculiar inconsistency between Google Maps on mobile devices and its implementation on Android Auto. While Google Maps on iOS, Android mobile, and even Apple CarPlay has long featured a built-in live speedometer, the Android Auto interface lacked this simple yet convenient tool. This discrepancy is finally being addressed, as Google is rolling out the feature to Android Auto, initially targeting beta testers and select users via server-side updates.


Functionality and Availability

Reports from the community indicate that the feature is beginning to appear for users on Google Maps version 26.29.02.946673643. Much like the version found in Waze or on other platforms, the new interface element displays the vehicle's real-time speed alongside the speed limit for the current road. In instances where speed limit data is unavailable, the application will simply show the current travel speed. This update effectively brings Google Maps on Android Auto on par with its primary competitor, Waze, regarding core navigation diagnostics.


Technical Context: GPS vs. Vehicle Speedometers

It is important for drivers to understand how these speeds are calculated, as there are often slight discrepancies between a car's dashboard and a navigation app:

  • Vehicle Dashboard: Measures tire rotation and often includes a 3% to 6% margin of error, frequently resulting in an overestimated speed.
  • GPS Navigation: Calculates speed based on location data over time.

While both Google Maps and Waze rely on the same GPS-based technology, discrepancies can occur. According to the developer, GPS data remains susceptible to environmental factors:

«GPS data can be affected by signal obstructions or dropouts disrupting the speed readout. Traveling through a tunnel, heavy tree cover, a parking garage, or urban areas with large buildings can affect GPS signal.»

Because of these potential signal interruptions, Google explicitly advises drivers to prioritize the speed displayed on the vehicle's built-in physical dashboard for safety and accuracy.