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Google Maps now will tell you it's time to get off the bus

On Android, Google's navigation service offers more of a helping hand when you're using public transit.

Stephen Shankland Former Principal Writer
Stephen Shankland worked at CNET from 1998 to 2024 and wrote about processors, digital photography, AI, quantum computing, computer science, materials science, supercomputers, drones, browsers, 3D printing, USB, and new computing technology in general. He has a soft spot in his heart for standards groups and I/O interfaces. His first big scoop was about radioactive cat poop.
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Stephen Shankland
Google Maps will now tell you when you've arrived at your train station -- like Caltrain's San Francisco terminal -- or when it's time to change bus lines.

Google Maps will now tell you when you've arrived at your train station -- like Caltrain's San Francisco terminal -- or when it's time to change bus lines.

Stephen Shankland/CNET

If you've ever worried about missing your stop, take heart: Google Maps will help you manage public transit a little better now.

For people using the navigation service on Android phones, Google Maps now will offer departure times, estimate when you'll arrive and alert you when you're at your bus stop or have to transfer to another train line.

For years, Google Maps has shown progress in regard to driving, but the move helps make public transit more convenient, too. That could be especially helpful when you're on unfamiliar routes or in new cities.