Jesus, that is a gross way to inject advertising into turn-by-turn navigation.
Edit/update from 9to5google so this post does not spread what is apparently inaccurate information: https://9to5google.com/2024/07/08/google-maps-pop-up-quick-detour-ad/
I’m going to paste here the comment I wrote on another post about this same issue:
Organic Maps and OsmAnd are not adding ads during navigation. Nor “promoted pins”. Nor ads when browsing the map. Nor tracking your every move.
Seriously, give them a try. And remember that, if the maps are lacking information, you are free (and encouraged) to improve them on OpenStreetMap.
I love organic maps and openstreetmaps. The biggest thing missing is satellite view. I like to wander around and explore an area on maps before visiting. OSM has more interesting/relevant details and better visual color coding than the vector street map on google. Google has a satellite map, which is non-negotiable for me especially if I need to quickly orient myself while driving in a new place. I use three layers loaded into qgis for planning trips: OSM, google maps satellite, and a topographic map from USGS. I sometimes use organic maps on my phone if I don’t have access to a computer with qgis. I rely on Google while on location because organic maps lacks a satellite feed.
But they aren’t providing live traffic congestion, right? That’s the only reason to use Google Maps. Not because of the maps or navigation.
I’m sure congestion info on the maps is valued by some, but not all. Many people just use maps to navigate unfamiliar places.
Well that kind of comes as a result of the whole ‘tracking your every move’ part
Sure but…that’s not the point. It’s easy to find alternative maps or navigation apps.
I mean, I feel like that’s going to happen regardless if you’re using an Android phone. I don’t think using a different app for GPS navigation is going to change that. I’m not saying we shouldn’t push for more stuff to be opt in and allow people to have their privacy maintained, but in the market right now, the app you use for GPS isn’t changing who is tracking you.