Whether you are a driver or a pedestrian, you have probably already used Google Maps to find the location of an appointment or the address of a store. And, if you are a driver, perhaps this application accompanies you on each of your journeys? This global online mapping service is the most usedwell above Waze, one of its competitors in terms of driving assistance. However, in France, Google Maps does not offer the speed camera warning system, which forces users to juggle with Waze which indicates “control zones”. So, if you are still juggling between two applications to drive peacefully and avoid unpleasant surprises, this tip might interest you. The solution is called TomTom Amigo and I will immediately explain how to take advantage of it with Google Maps. Decryption.
Why does Google Maps not offer this function in France?
Since its launch in 2005, Google Maps has established itself as an essential tool, replacing traditional paper maps and GPS. Personally, I always have a paper road map, which never depends on 5G coverage, but that’s another debate! Google Maps is an American system that is not not developed in the same way in all countries since regulations differ. In France, for example, speed camera warnings are subject to strict regulations, which prevents Google from offering this option natively. But, rest assured, it is entirely possible to get around this limitation by integrating a speed camera warning widget directly into Google Maps, without compromising the user experience.
The trick to activating a speed camera warning with Google Maps
Please note, always find out about the legislation of countries bordering France if you travel there. In Germany or Switzerland, applications warning of speed cameras are strictly prohibited and punishable by heavy fines, as Méline explained to you in this article. To get started, download the TomTom AmiGo app from the Google Play Store (or iOS). Once installed, follow these simple steps:
- When launching for the first time, select a text-to-speech to download the necessary files.
- Access the main menu by tapping the three bars located at the bottom left.
- Head to Settings, then scroll down to the Overlay Mode option. Activate it by pressing “OK”.
Next, go back to the main TomTom AmiGo map and tap the speed indicator. You will have to allow the app to display a floating widget. This widget includes speed camera warnings and maximum speed limits. Once enabled, it will be visible on your screen as an overlay, even when using Google Maps. Be careful, and as expected since it is available on the Google Play Store, it is not accessible to iPhone users.
How to make it work perfectly?
Before enjoying this application, there are still some data to check, as the widget may not be displayed. If this were the case, we would have to go check app permissions in the settings of your smartphone. Find TomTom AmiGo under ‘Manage apps’ and make sure options like ‘Show pop-ups’ are enabled.
Depending on your device, these settings may vary slightly. And, have you ever tried to combine Google Maps with a speed camera warning? What tools do you use for more peaceful and secure driving? Share your tips, I’m curious to discover your experiences! Give us your opinion, or share your experience with us. Please notify us of any errors in the text, click here to post a comment.
