In an ideal world, tech should be used to make our lives easier, and keep us safe.
That isn’t always the case, but a long-awaited Google update looks set to do both for iPhone owners.
Millions of drivers across the globe rely on Google Maps to get them from A to B, and since 2019, those using Android phones have had the added benefit of a second speedometer and speed limits on screen, helping make sure they don’t break the law.
Sadly for iPhone users, they had no such help – until now.
According to TechCrunch, Google has finally started rolling out the update to iOS, which means drivers’ speed is shown on the display, in miles or kilometres per hour, depending on the region.
Google confirmed to TechCrunch that the update will be global.
Once the speedometer is switched on, the speed limits feature will ensure the speed indicator changes colour if you creep over the limit, encouraging you to slow down.
However, Google does stress that the speedometer is for ‘informational use only’, and that drivers should rely on the vehicle’s own speedometer for their actual driving speed.
How to switch on the speedometer
To switch on the speedometer, go to Settings > Navigation > Driving options.
Settings can be found by tapping on your profile picture.
Google users have also highlighted that the speed limit shown on Maps is for single cars, while the national speed limit can change on certain roads depending on the type of vehicle and scenario.
For example, the speed limit for a single car on a dual carriageway or motorway is 70mph, unless it is towing a trailer, such as a caravan or horsebox, and then it is 60mph. It is also 60mph for heavy goods vehicles, and differs for buses, coaches and other vehicles depending on the road.
Nevertheless, the extra help avoiding a ticket will no doubt be welcomed by drivers.
Between January and August last year, 639,042 speeding offences were recorded, while more than a million fines were issued in 2022.
Most speeding tickets come with a fine of £100 and three points added to the driver’s licence, but it can be up to six.
However, anyone caught speeding at more than 100mph, or at 30mph or more over the speed limit, faces an automatic driving ban.
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