The Google Maps team is rolling out a new update for iOS users and for once it adds something unique for iOS only devices. The new update tagged as version 4.30.0 brings onboard a new Directions Widget, one that will allow Google Maps users to view turn-by-turn navigation directions right there on the lock screen.
Google decided to take advantage of iOS’ Today screen on the lock screen to ensure that the widget is always on the top. The problem with throwing up directions as a notification, results in the notification getting buried under notifications coming from other apps. iOS’s widget feature gives app developers a space on the lockscreen that will allow user customised widgets to show up, revealing shorter bits of data, without the need to unlock the device.
To activate the widget all you need to do is swipe right from your homescreen to open the Today screen. Once there, scroll to the bottom and tap the edit button. There you will see the updated Directions widget. Tap the ‘+’ sign to add and then tap on the grab icon on the left to reorder the widget as you wish.