At first, it was available as a feature where only people who reached a certain level on Maps as Local Guides explorers, but it is known that Google is to launch an app that will provide recommendations, reviews, local transportation options and much more.
The application is to be available on both iPhone and Android and reportedly it is able to register your travel information by just scanning your email account’s messages.
Competing with Yelp and others
By far, this is not the first app that provides reviews and recommendations while traveling, as Yelp and TripIt are two other popular alternatives that already carry a significant following. TripIt, for instance, allows you to get flight alerts, notifications, seat selection, trip sharing and other similar options. But according to what it is known, Google Trips is to be sort of a “what to do” finder, where it scans your surroundings and lets you manage reservations for restaurants and accommodation.
Google Trips is currently available as a feature for Local Guides program participants, which is an effort developed by Google so there are more high-quality reviews of businesses and locations, as collaborating users will be rewarded with being allowed to chat with nearby reviewers, attending special meetings, moderation rights on Google+ and similar privileges. Local Guides participants that reach the amount of 200 high-quality reviews will be featured on Google’s Google+ page and will receive a gift of unknown value on a yearly basis.
These benefits are similar to Yelp’s, but it seems that Google’s Local Guides program is much easier to access for the public, as participants can openly review calendars where local meet-ups are displayed and then choose if they want to assist.
The app will feature a “Getting Around” option, where you will be able to review transportation schedules and prices even if you do not have an active internet connection, as not everyone who travels has an international data plan.
Google Trips is set to work alongside Maps, as Google Maps contains a great deal of accurate information that users are suggested to correct if there is a discrepancy of sorts. You can review other sections such as Things to do, Saved Places, Reservations, Getting around, Need to know and Food & drink. There is no official release date, but it is safe to assume that it should be launched before 2016 third quarter so we can plan our summer vacations with it.
Source: Android Police