Maps App & Carplay

In our fast-paced world, navigation apps are crucial for millions. Yet, complex and inconsistent UI, plus a poor UX on iOS and Android, are worries. This study explores user issues and suggests a new UI for better map app usability.

Case Study Maps Navigation iOS App Carplay 2023 2 min

How to make millions suffer no more

Google Maps, available in 220+ countries, is a top digital mapping service. With 1 billion monthly users, it offers precise directions, live traffic updates, and business info. Simplifying global exploration and navigation, Maps aids users in discovering new places, planning trips, and accessing information.

But why are they so difficult to use?
Complex and Inconsistent UI hampers overall UX and increases the learning curve. The lack of a standardized UI across navigation apps confuses users.
Excessive Clutter: Filling the app with unnecessary icons, buttons, and data distract users from their main task of finding directions.
Feature Overload: Packing numerous functions into the app can overwhelm, making it hard to quickly find and use the needed features.

Solution Strategies

To overcome the existing challenges and enhance maps app usability, a new UI approach is needed. The following strategies are recommended:
Clean UI with intuitive navigation patterns will improve user familiarity and ease of use.
Focused User Experience: By minimizing distractions and showing essential information according to user context and preferences, the app becomes more user-centric.
Instead of presenting all features at once, adopt a progressive approach by unveiling functionalities gradually as users explore the app.

Routes

The navigation UI should be as simple as possible. Here, the rule "less is more" applies: the less time user spends understanding its functionality, the better.
Relevant display data: In this instance, OpenStreetMaps shows only the roads suitable for your vehicle.
Three routes are suggested:
> Fastest
> Shortest
> Optimal by time, distance, traffic, lights, and turns.
Double tap on the route line or press Start to start navigation.

Navigation

Only essentials are shown on the route: road repairs, cameras, gas stations, and parkings. Additional details can be set in the settings.

Nav Directions for clear lane guidance and deired exit distance.
speed limit of this road section;
overspeed.
Speed Limit Detector much more valuable for the driver than the speedometer (which is already on car's dashboard).

Nav Menu: Shows remaining distance, estimated travel time, and expected arrival time. Tapping opens the Add Stop menu.

Add Stop Menu

Search Box: Enter queries using text or speech.

Search Categories, based on the chosen navigation mode: Car / Public Transport / Bicycle / Walking

Search History Suggestions.

Stop Options

Users can define vehicle type, fuel and route priorities in the settings. For instance, selecting A95 fuel-only gas stations or hiding electric and diesel stations.
In this showcase, Gas Station Options are suggested and the nearest point along the route is selected.
Gas stations displays the brand and price for the fuel type, specified in the settings.
Stop Options are 100% relevant ads to consumers ready to buy. These non-intrusive native ads are highly effective.

Carplay

CarPlay / Android Auto user experience and UI are maximally preserved to ensure a smooth transition, regardless of the platform or device.

Conclusion

Improving maps app usability is vital for an enjoyable navigation experience. The new UI approach tackles complexity, distractions, and excess features to enhance overall usability across platforms, boosting user satisfaction and app engagement.

You won't miss that turn again.