As we expected, Google introduced the new Google Maps interface and features at Google I/O.
The new maps are no longer a "static map" but now the maps are "immersively interactive" said Google. Try clicking just about anywhere to surface more information and to make the map more relevant to you. Every interaction dynamically changes the map in order to surface information relevant to the location, search topic, and your search history. For example, if you click on a hamburger place on the map, other nearby locations and nearby food will be highlighted as well.
So how do you get access to the new Google Maps? You can request an invite over here, if this is not working for you, like some in the Google Maps Help forum are complaining, Google suggests you try this:
- Make sure you're not using multiple log-ins. Try logging out of all accounts in your browser, then log into only the account to which the email invite was sent. If you were forwarded the email, you'll need to be logged into the account to which the email was sent.
- Make sure the page didn't time out. Try refreshing the page.
- Check if it's your browser. Try opening your opt in email in another browser.
- Try it from the beginning. Clear your cache and cookies, then try re-opening your opt in email.
Here is a video of the new Google Maps features:
Forum discussion at Google Maps Help.