A few days ago, Google revamped its widely popular Maps app. As is typical with changes, opinions varied—some welcomed it, while others remained indifferent. In the latter group was Elizabeth Laraki, a former designer at Google who worked on Maps. Laraki turned to X and shared a detailed critique of the flaws she identified in the new design of Google Maps.
Having contributed to the design of Google Maps 15 years ago and being a daily user since, Laraki expressed her disappointment with the significantly altered visual design. In her post, she remarked, “I don’t love it. It feels colder, less accurate, and less human. But more importantly, they missed a key opportunity to simplify and scale.
Google Maps looks crowded
Laraki criticized the increasing clutter “accumulated on top of the map.” She highlighted that there are now 11 different elements obstructing it. In her view, “The map should be sacred real estate. Only things that are highly useful to many people should obscure it.
She also suggested incorporating new features without directly overlaying them on the map. Her three tips for Google included: dramatically simplify, prioritize map visibility strongly, and phase out legacy and low-use features. Reflecting on her experience in 2007 as one of two designers on Google Maps, she noted the challenge of cluttered interfaces and the need for simplification to accommodate growth. She concluded on X, saying, “It seems like it’s time for Google Maps to do this again.
What Google has to say
In a statement provided to CNBC, a spokesperson from Google mentioned, “We’re continually exploring ways to ensure Google Maps more accurately mirrors the real world. Our updates are crafted through thorough research and user feedback, aiming to enhance the map’s usability and clarity. For instance, the roads now feature a darker shade to closely resemble actual roads, providing a better backdrop for useful details such as lanes.
