Google Maps for iOS adds detour function, 3D touch support

Google has extended its pit-stop feature -- the ability to find places to stop off on journeys -- to iPhone and iPad users with the release of Google Maps for iOS 4.16.

The ability to create diversions was first unveiled in Google Maps for Android back in October, and allows users to add pit stops to a planned route during journeys while in navigation mode.

Once users enter navigation mode to follow the route chosen, they can then plot a diversion en-route. Tap the search button to view options for viewing nearby local petrol stations, supermarkets, restaurants and coffee shops -- complete with ratings. Users can also search for other diversion by choosing "Search for more places", then typing or saying what they’re looking for.

Matching items appear with an estimated effect on journey time included -- users can then tap the location to select it, and the route will be replotted and updated.

Users must then remove the stop when complete in order to add further diversions to their journey if required.

Google Maps for iOS 4.16 also adds one more minor feature -- the ability to use 3D touch to tap and hold the Google Maps app icon on the home screen to get directions to home or work from the current location.

The update is rounded off with the usual unspecified bug fixes. Google Maps for iOS 4.16.0 is available now for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch running iOS 7.0 or later, plus the Apple Watch.