Google Maps expands 3D buildings feature to more Android Auto users: potential orientation aid with controversial convenience

The website 9to5Google has reported introducing 3D buildings in Google Maps on Android Auto. According to their observations, 3D buildings on the map are activated by default. Still, users have the option to disable this feature by going to the Google Maps settings within the car. The 3D buildings on the Android Auto map can be helpful to for orienting oneself in unfamiliar cities with many unique structures. Indeed, it provides an additional reference point on the GPS navigation screen.

The site 9to5Google does not confirm a direct link between the display of 3D buildings on the map and the recent Android Auto 11.2 update release. Nevertheless, it's conceivable that this new feature may be restricted to more recent versions of the operating system and the updated Google Maps app. Thus, it's worth checking if the most recent software versions are installed on your phone, as this could increase the chances of accessing the new feature, even if it's only activated on the server side.

The 3D buildings appearing on the map are small in scale, minimizing the risk of obscuring other streets and impeding navigation. However, some early users have commented that they can create clutter on the screen and do not facilitate easy reading of route information when glancing at the navigation screen.

Given the recent interface and colour scheme revamp for Google Maps, the cumulative changes may initially confuse drivers accustomed to the previous map version. However, disabling the 3D buildings feature in the settings is possible. Nonetheless, some users have indicated that this option is inconvenient as it necessitates toggling for each planned route.

Furthermore, 9to5Google observes that 3D buildings only appear using a light map theme. When the theme is switched to dark (such as when a vehicle's headlights are turned on), the 3D buildings are not visible. Yet, this wasn't the case in earlier stages of testing, as the feature displayed 3D buildings on Android Auto at all times, regardless of the theme chosen in Google Maps.