Google Maps adds new restaurant delivery and takeaway function

Google has updated its Maps app to make it easier for users to see nearby restaurants and other stores offering deliveries and takeaways during the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to 9to5google.com, the technology giant has had this facility in its Maps app for some time, but has now made it more visible to customers.

Upon opening, the Maps app now has ‘delivery’ and ‘takeaway’ shortcuts, enabling users to find local restaurants and other outlets offering the service. Other shortcuts on the home screen include ‘groceries’, ‘chemists’ and ‘coffee’.

Customers can select the restaurant and then be taken directly through to its website to order food.

The Google search engine itself is also highlighting restaurants and that offer takeaway and delivery services, while in addition to the on-screen shortcuts, the Maps app also displays a tick or cross below each restaurant, indicating which services they provide.

If selecting the ‘delivery’ or ‘takeaway’ shortcut, users can filter their searches by opening times, cuisine, distance, as well as rating.

According to media reports, the changes appear to have been rolled out across Android and iOS versions of the app in the UK, the US, France and the Netherlands.