Google Maps app updated, but no new features -- just redesigned ads

Google updated its maps app for Android and iPhone smartphones not with new features but with redesigned ads that show up when users do a search query.

Google Maps has been displaying ads since 2010, but Google revamped them to go with a new look it gave the app earlier this year.

The company said the new ads introduced this week are “more attractive for users and more effective for advertisers.”

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The company said that now when users search for locations on the Google Maps apps, they’ll see “relevant ads” appear at the bottom of the screen. They will also be indicated on the map with a purple icon.

The ads include a location title, ad text and a link for getting directions. Users will be able to expand the ads by either tapping on them or swiping them upward.

Once the ad is expanded, users will also see the business’ address, phone number, photos and other details.

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