Improved UI and plenty of new features included

Jul 7, 2015 08:41 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft has just rolled out a major Bing Maps update that’s available in a limited number of countries (at least for now, but the company says that many more users will get it very soon), which pretty much makes it a stronger rival to the likes of Google and HERE, which are both competing in the mapping business.

First and foremost, Bing Maps received a major visual overhaul, so the service now looks more modern and fresh, which should also make it easier to use on both touch and non-touch devices.

Information for multiple destinations is now displayed in new results cards, with Bing Maps Preview displaying all details in the left side of the screen, including hours of operation, nearby services, and more.

The new layout is also a little bit more intuitive, letting you quickly toggle between aerial and road, while options such as add to rout, view streetside, and save as favorite can now be quickly accessed by simply right-clicking the screen.

Better search features

One of the most useful additions is the integration of new search and directions options that allow you to quickly plan travel times and discover venues using a tool called “Along the Route.”

“Need to know where hotels, restaurants and gas stations are located on the way to your destination? Along the Route is the new feature that helps you find places you might want to stop at during your trip. Many have suggested this via Bing Listens, and we thank you for your feedback,” Redmond says.

Options to save your destinations in your own accounts are also being offered, so you’ll find them all in the My Places section. At the same time, you can share travel plans with others via email.

Microsoft says that a redesigned mobile Bing Maps experience is also in the works, but no information has been shared at this time. The new redesigned web service is now available in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and South Africa.

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The new cards used to show search information
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