Google has added a new feature to its Maps mobile application that shows users the air quality nearby. For now, this data is only available in the United States.

Google Maps now lets users check the air quality nearby, both on its Android and iOS version. This information is displayed in the form of a new map layer, like those showing public transportation, bike paths or traffic conditions.

To access the air quality layer, click on the icon showing the various map layers, then select “Air Quality” in the “Map Details” section. The information will then automatically appear on the map, in the relevant areas, with a colour code and an index showing recently measured air quality findings. Scrolling down the results offers a more detailed view of the air quality throughout a neighbourhood or city.

Note that for the United States - the only country where this data currently appears - information is provided by the Environmental Protection Agency and the PurpleAir network of atmospheric sensors measuring the amount of pollutants in the air.

In the future, this service could become international, and mobile users could soon be able to check the local air quality in their region thanks to data provided by local partners.

 - AFP Relaxnews