Indian digital navigation market space has for a long time dominated by Google Maps. However India’s very own navigation app Mappls, developed by MapmyIndia, is emerging as a strong local alternative. While Google Maps is a global preferred navigation app, Mappls offers users in India unique India-specific features and decades of local mapping expertise that aim to solve real problems Indian users face daily.
In this article we have mentioned five special features that make Mappls a serious competitor in the navigation app industry.
Mappls Pin
One of the most innovative features of Mappls is the Mappls Pin. This pin is a six-character digital code that represents an exact location. According to the company this system addresses the challenges of poorly structured or incomplete addresses in many Indian areas. Similar to Google’s Plus Codes, Mappls Pins are designed to mix with India’s DIGIPIN system and offer door-level accuracy. Thereby making it easier to find homes in crowded localities or rural regions.
Toll and Trip Cost Calculator
Mappls navigation app offers users features beyond directions like helping users calculate toll charges and estimate fuel costs before a trip. This feature is especially useful for long-distance travelers and commercial drivers who need to manage expenses. It offers route options based not just on distance or time, but also on total cost, allowing users to make more informed travel decisions.
3D Junction Views for Better Navigation
Navigating through complex flyovers or highway interchanges can be difficult, especially in indian cities. However Mappls offers realistic 3D junction views that clearly show lane positions, entry/exit points, and surrounding landmarks. This feature helps to improve driver confidence and helps avoid wrong turns. Additionally, its collaboration with ISRO ensures high-precision, satellite-supported mapping unique to Indian terrain.
Live Traffic Signal Timers
Another standout feature is Mappls’ integration with live traffic signal timers, although this is currently active in only Bengaluru. The app displays countdowns for red and green lights, helping drivers better anticipate stops. These updates are powered by AI, adjusting signal timings based on real-time traffic conditions and offering rerouting suggestions to avoid congestion.
India-Specific Road Alerts
People in India have long complained that global apps often overlook local conditions. However Mappls provides alerts for speed breakers, potholes, sharp turns, and speed cameras which are all common on Indian roads. These local updates are provided from MapmyIndia’s years of on-ground data collection, giving users a safer and smoother navigation experience.
While Google Maps leads globally, Mappls offers a customised experience for Indian users. Its India features, combined with local insight, gives it an edge. For those navigating the diverse roads of India, Mappls might just be the smarter choice.
