Google Maps update will make it much harder to miss your bus stop even when you’re sleepy

The changes will bring the popular app in line with competing service Citymapper

Google Maps is set to become far more useful for people who use public transport.

The app is getting two new types of notification, which will make it much harder to miss your train, bus or tube stop when you’re travelling.

The changes will bring Maps in line with Citymapper, a competing service that specialises in making public transport easier to use.

When you search for directions on Maps, you’ll soon be able to tap a Start button towards the bottom of the screen, reports TechCrunch.

When you do, the app will start delivering live updates, depending on whereabouts you are on your journey.

Maps will even remind you to get off your bus or train when you approach your stop, which should prove particularly useful if you’re on the verge of falling asleep or visiting an area you’re completely unfamiliar with.

Lock screen notifications, which will also be extremely handy, are also on their way.

They’ll save you from having to unlock your phone and consult the Maps app every time you want to remind yourself of the directions you need to take.

Instead, all you’ll need to do is glance at your lock screen.

Maps is a brilliant and extremely popular service, but it’s more tailored towards drivers and walkers than public transport users.

These updates should change that, though Google still has a long way to go if it wants to match the level of detail offered by Citymapper, which also offers useful journey stats and analyses your history to make your commute quicker.

Google hasn’t dropped any hints about when the Maps update might go live, but it’s expected to roll out soon.