Why Google Maps doesn't recommend the shortest route

In fact, Google Maps has its own reasons for making such route suggestions. To determine which route is best to get people to their destination the fastest the platform relies on various factors and analysis. This sometimes causes users to travel a longer distance than other routes shown in the app.

Google Maps is not only a platform that keeps a record of the trips and destinations that users have visited, in addition to the routes and means of transportation they have used, but the application also analyzes the situation traffic and times when there are many cars on main streets and highways. When calculating the routes the user can take to reach the destination, the application will have to use all of the above information.

When Google Maps chooses a route for users to get from point A to point B, its algorithm considers aspects such as traffic on the street, speed limits, and in some cases can determine Which route is the most fuel-efficient?

If Google Maps detects that a short route will take longer due to some problem like an accident recorded a few minutes ago or heavy traffic, it will redirect you along a route. longer alternative path to ensure the user takes less time to reach the specified destination.

On the other hand, the application also analyzes the user's driving habits. If you often pass by a certain street, Google Maps may consider it 'useful' and give you suggestions even if the route is longer during periods of low traffic.

Lesley Montoya

Update 21 June 2024