Google Maps just got WAY better on your iPhone

The researchers analyzed 55 of the most popular apps from each market and found that a significant percentage of them regularly provided Google, Apple, and other third parties with user e-mail addresses, names, and physical locations.

It builds on Google Maps navigation features which, until now, have shown traffic conditions through a series of colours – either red for the heaviest traffic, orange or blue for clear roads.

If you use Google Maps on your iPhone device, head to the App Store and download the latest update, version 4.12.0 (if you don’t have it already).

The app will tell you about accidents, traffic congestion or other incidents (like police in the area) for your route before you start driving. Essentially, the only way to ensure you get security updates right away on Android is to own one of Google’s Nexus devices. Instead of relying on email, the updated apps will display notifications when something has been shared with you, allowing you to go straight to the file or folder that’s been shared.

According to Google the update is not immediately available but will be rolled out in the near future. It can help you get to your destination, find places to get gas or eat, see remote locations at ground level, view satellite and terrain features and so much more. Now, you can do it without an account, just like on the Web.

Wherever you lie on the spectrum, Google-on-iOS is a pretty decent setup. As on Android, Maps’ iOS app now speaks out traffic warnings in navigation mode. The latest update makes it even easier to share and access files. That’s a marked improvement over having to copy down a link, switch into the Keep app and then paste it into a new note.

Both features are in line with what Keep’s competitors, Evernote and OneNote, have had on iOS for a long time.

Before, if you don’t have or you’re not logged in to your Google account on your smartphone, you wouldn’t be able to preview shared files on your phone. With the upgrade, the apps integrated with Drive will display a notification to the user, when something has been shared. In addition to Waze, the app underwent a significant design overhaul that attracted a lot of former Google Maps users. Of course, you’ll miss out on a few of the Android-specific features, like Google Now integration, but overall, it’s a surprisingly pleasant experience.