Google removes Covid-19 layer from Maps: Here’s what the company said

In 2020, Google added Covid-19 layer to the Maps app on mobile phones and the web. The feature, which was rolled out globally, showed relevant information on impacted places. In some regions, it even provided additional information – such as locally relevant links based on your current map view – related to the pandemic. Google has now removed this feature from the app.
“We launched the Covid-19 layer in 2020 to help people learn about how Covid cases were trending in an area. Since then, as people around the world have gained increased access to Covid-19 vaccines, testing, and other resources, their information needs have evolved as well,” Google said in a support page.
The company says that since the feature has seen “declining usage” and it is no longer available on Google Maps for mobile and web. In fact, Google says that the layer was removed in the month of September 2022. Users can, however, still find places like testing sites and vaccine centres on Maps. Additionally, the information about Covid-19, such as variants, vaccination, testing, prevention and more, can be found on Google Search.

Earlier this year, Google announced that it would launch several new updates for Maps in the coming months. These features include Immersive View, Neighborhood Vibe and Search with Live View.
The Immersive View feature will help users get an idea of a city they are visiting and plan their trip in advance. not only cities, users can also see an immersive view of places, such as stadiums to get an idea where the parking is and which gate to enter from. The Neighborhood Vibe will show a user trendy places near the specific place you are visiting. The Search with Live View feature will let users use their smartphone camera to find places like shops, ATMs and restaurants, among others.