GOOGLE is urging people to check their Google Maps today after the search giant rolled out a crucial software update.

In a blog post, the U.S. search giant highlighted a number of handy new features rolling out to its navigation app in the coming weeks.

Google Maps now shows drivers the locations of stop signs and traffic lights

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Google Maps now shows drivers the locations of stop signs and traffic lightsCredit: Google

There is now a more detailed map that shows the locations of road signals such as traffic lights and stop signs ahead.

In select cities, Google will provide extra information such as the shape and width of a road.

According to the company, the changes help you “better understand where you are and decrease the odds of making last-minute lane changes or missing a turn.”

Another update rolling out to users makes it easier to dodge unnecessary toll roads.

US Army's most SECRET bases around the world revealed on Google Maps
Google Maps update adds features that will make driving a smoother experience

Soon, you’ll see the estimated toll price to your destination before you start navigating.

Maps achieves this using trusted information from local tolling authorities.

Google said: “We look at factors like the cost of using a toll pass or other payment methods, what the day of the week it is, along with how much the toll is expected to cost at the specific time you’ll be crossing it.”

If you’re not a fan of toll roads, Google will show you when a toll-free route is available.

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A new iPhone widget lets you access Maps from your Home Screen

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A new iPhone widget lets you access Maps from your Home ScreenCredit: Google

You can also head into the app’s settings to choose to avoid seeing routes with toll roads completely.

To do that, tap the three dots at the top right corner of your directions in Google Maps and select “Avoid tolls”.

Toll prices will show up on Android and iOS this month for users in the U.S., India, Japan and Indonesia, with more countries coming soon.

The last change introduced by Google makes its navigation service easier to access on Apple gadgets.

Apple Watch users, for instance, will soon be able to get directions on Google Maps directly from their gadget.

It means they’ll no longer need to begin navigation from their iPhones, instead doing so on the Google Maps shortcut in the Apple Watch app.

Apple fans will also soon be able to access Google Maps from the iPhone Home Screen via a new iOS widget.

The company said that the updates will “help you plan your drive, save money and explore a new place.”

The app also alerts drivers of toll prices they will incur on different routes

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The app also alerts drivers of toll prices they will incur on different routesCredit: Google

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This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk

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