How to discover wheelchair accessible spots on Google Maps

Google Maps is undoubtedly the most useful application from the search giant. While it gets directions wrong at times, Google has updated the app with new features to make it more than an app for getting from point A to point B. One area of focus for Google with Maps has been accessibility, and for those with disability, Google Maps has made it easier to navigate your surroundings.

Google navigation: Wheelchair-accessible spots on Google Maps

In 2023, Google announced a major expansion of its accessible navigation features, including updated Live View experiences for blind users and a new identity attribute label for disabled-owned businesses. However, the feature that caught everyone’s attention was wheelchair-accessible walking routes.

“The wheelchair icon next to relevant search results on Google Maps will help people identify destinations with a step-free entrance, accessible restrooms, parking, and seating — so they can travel with more confidence,” Google says.

There are countless reports to prove that only a few cities are accessible for those with disabilities and even if a city has good accessibility, it may be difficult to navigate them.

With its new accessible Google navigation features, the search giant is helping users to request only wheelchair-accessible routes. It is also easier than ever to find wheelchair-accessible spots or places. Here’s how to discover wheelchair-accessible spots on Google Maps:

Step 1: Open the Google Maps app on your Android smartphone or iPhone.

Step 2: Tap your profile picture or initial in the top right corner to open the account menu.

Step 3: Select Settings.

Step 4: Scroll down to Accessibility settings.

Step 5: Click on the toggle next to the “Accessible places” option.

This will enable Google Maps to display all wheelchair-accessible places, indicated by a wheelchair icon in the search results.

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Step 6: Once enabled, search for a location and if it is wheelchair-accessible, you will see a wheelchair icon next to it.

Google Discover features: How to use the Live View feature

Google Maps is also expanding the accessibility of its Live View feature for Maps users navigating unfamiliar places. This plugs into Google Discover and uses your phone’s camera, AI, and augmented reality to help disabled people navigate their surroundings with real-time information.

The update to the Live View feature includes screen reader capabilities to Search with Live View on Google Maps, which is particularly useful for people who are blind or low-vision. Here’s how to use the Live View feature:

Step 1: Click the camera on the right side of the search bar or open Google Maps and type the name of your destination.

Step 2: Tap the “Live View” icon next to Start at the bottom of the screen.

Step 3: Follow the on-screen directions or lift your phone up to scan your surroundings.

Step 4: If a screen reader is enabled then Google Maps will offer auditory feedback of the places around you including information such as the name and category of a place.

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In addition to these features, Google also makes it extremely easy to update the accessibility attributes of a business. For people with disabilities and wheelchair users, the accessibility tool from Google Maps can be a game-changer and make it easier for them to plan or navigate the world around them without any worry.