Google has announced it will retire its standalone Map Maker product in March 2017, integrating its features into Google Maps.
Google Map Maker, an online tool active since 2008, has enabled users to contribute information to Google Maps, which moderators would then approve or deny. The forthcoming update aims to better focus on the editing and moderation experience within Google Maps itself. By retiring Map Maker and migrating its features to Maps, Google will streamline suggested edits through a single channel.
In a move to speed up the editorial process, beginning today, edits made on Google Maps will no longer be available for moderation on Map Maker. “This will allow us to streamline our efforts, speeding up the time for an edit to get published,” the company stated.
Crowdsourced contributions will still be possible through the Local Guides program, allowing users to earn points by completing objectives like reviewing locations or adding photos.
While Google Map Maker offers robust tools, such as the ability to edit roads, these features will be merged into Google Maps by March 2017. This consolidation will benefit users by providing all features in one application and could lead to increased use of these migrated features.
In summary, retiring Map Maker makes sense both for users and the company, enhancing user experience and consolidating features into a single, more accessible application.
