# The Annoying Destination Box: How the Google Maps Update for Android Auto is Irritating Users
Google Maps has been a fundamental tool for navigation, providing dependable directions and an easy-to-use interface. Nevertheless, a recent modification to its Android Auto integration has led to dissatisfaction among users, especially those with smaller or square screens in their vehicles. The concern? A seemingly minor adjustment in the positioning of the navigation arrow and destination box that greatly affects usability.
## What Changed?
In a recent over-the-air (OTA) update, Google Maps on Android Auto now positions the navigation arrow at the center of the screen when no destination is selected. Previously, the arrow was placed slightly off-center to the right, allowing for a more spacious view of the map around the vehicle. This design decision was made to accommodate the large destination box, which features a search bar and suggested locations, along with additional interface elements like settings buttons.
While centering the navigation arrow might appear to be a sensible choice, it has introduced a new issue: on smaller or square displays, the destination box now blocks a considerable part of the map. This makes it more difficult for drivers to view the road ahead on the map, particularly when no destination has been established.
## Why the Frustration?
For users with compact Android Auto screens, the former off-center design was a practical workaround. It ensured that the street being navigated was visible, even with the destination box occupying space. The new centered arrangement, however, diverts the focus from the road ahead, compelling users to deal with a congested interface.
The annoyance is intensified by the reality that the update does not modify navigation when a destination is entered. In that situation, the navigation arrow and driving route are moved to the right, ensuring they remain in view. This inconsistency has left many users baffled as to why Google would modify the interface for the non-navigation view, which is arguably just as crucial for maintaining situational awareness.
## Who is Affected?
The consequences of this adjustment differ according to the size and aspect ratio of the vehicle’s display. Larger or widescreen displays can easily accommodate the centered navigation arrow and destination box without hindering the map view. However, for vehicles with smaller or square screens, the new layout considerably diminishes the usable map area.
This variation highlights a broader challenge for Android Auto: crafting a universal interface that works well across a diverse array of screen sizes and shapes. As car manufacturers continue experimenting with display designs, from ultra-wide dashboards to compact touchscreens, Android Auto must evolve to provide a consistent and user-friendly experience.
## Potential Workarounds
Currently, users have limited solutions to tackle the situation. Some potential alternatives include:
1. **Concealing or Minimizing the Destination Box:** If Google Maps permits users to hide or minimize the destination box, this could create more screen space for the map view. However, this adds an additional layer of complexity to the user experience.
2. **Establishing a Destination:** While not always feasible, setting a destination guarantees that the navigation arrow and route shift to the right, enhancing visibility.
3. **Providing Feedback to Google:** Users can share their thoughts through the Android Auto app or Google Maps settings, encouraging Google to reconsider or refine the update.
## Will Google Revert the Change?
Google has a tendency to adjust the Android Auto interface based on user feedback. The placement of the navigation arrow and destination box has been modified several times previously, indicating that the company may be receptive to changes. If a sufficient number of users express their concerns, it’s plausible that Google will revert or refine this update in an upcoming release.
## The Bigger Picture
This situation highlights the difficulties of engineering software for varied hardware environments. As car screens continue to advance, from traditional rectangular displays to ultra-wide and even curved models, platforms like Android Auto need to find a balance between functionality and adaptability. While updates are generally intended to enhance the user experience, they can sometimes lead to unintended repercussions, as evidenced by this latest Google Maps adjustment.
For now, users will need to adjust to the new layout or hope that Google responds to their concerns in a future update. In the meantime, the discussion regarding the destination box and its influence on usability serves as a reminder that even minor design modifications can profoundly affect the user experience.
