All travelers need a map, especially if they are in a foreign country. It is the guide that will help them reach their destination. But what if your map was intentionally tampered with by a prankster? This was what happened to the Google Map. A few months ago, a prankster created an image wherein an Android logo pees on the Apple logo. That image became a very controversial as you might well imagine. Thus, Google decided to remove the map maker feature and the photo and avoid more controversies.
But never fear – a few weeks ago, the mentioned map maker returns with new tools and improved security features that you can use. This is great news, however, Google Map Maker is not available in all countries. Australia, Canada, Ukraine, Brazil, India, the Philippines and the US are just some of the 50 countries that can get access to the map editor. Though these countries have access to the app, it doesn’t mean that they can change the content freely, unlike before.
There are a few things that have changed when it comes to editing the map. But the guidelines are still the same. For instance, you need to disclose where you live. The app will tell you if your country has permission to edit the content. If your country is one of them, it will give you the latest instructions on how to add a name of an establishment to the map.
But as mentioned earlier, editing the map is not as easy as before. In the past you could display your creation as soon as you finished editing the map, because of its auto-approval feature. Now, the team will check it first before they post it on the map. Google have hired Regional Leaders who will review all the edits people have made in their designated area. If the direction is correct, then the leader will add it to the map. However, if they see something wrong with your edit, then they will not post it on the map. Yes, it will take more time before you can see your edit, but Google wants to make sure that the prank image won’t happen again.
With the regional leaders, the days of prank map makers are over. Not only will this restore the app’s reputation, but it will help the travelers all over the world reach the right destination with ease.
