Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has linked up with Google Glass to provide step-by-step guidance on road-related information to public transport users in Dubai, Gulf News has revealed.

Google Glass users can now have access to all the information about public transport including timings, route maps as well as the availability of various modes of transport through Google Maps, it said

“It’s as easy as just saying ‘Hey Google take me to Dubai Mall’ and Google Glass will offer you all the options to reach Dubai Mall from a particular location,” said Abdullah Al Madani, CEO of RTA’s corporate support services sector.

The service can be availed of by activating Google Glass’ ‘Step-by-Step’ feature through which it advises users on the exact route to a particular destination as well as the alternatives available, the report said.

He added that the app was launched because there is growth in the users of smart wearable devices such as glasses and watches. As part of the Dubai Smart City initiative, they want to keep up-to-date with latest technologies.

Al Madani said: “Users will be able to see a route map and directions to a particular destination, with the distance to walk, estimated time to reach or when the next bus or Metro is available, etc.”

However, he clarified that the service is available for public transport users only and is not recommended for motorists and drivers.

“This service is not suitable for drivers. We are not providing service for navigation in your car. This is strictly for public transport commuters only,” he said.

The application will particularly help tourists who use Google Glass to find their way, he said.

“Google Glass is not officially launched in UAE but there are people who are using it and there a lot of tourists who bring it from their countries where it is available. Our idea is to stay ahead in terms of technology and provide the services required through all the tech channels available. We are the first city in the region to provide transport-related information through Google Glass,” Al Madani said.

Interestingly, the app also offers information about tourist spots along the way as well as around the user’s current location and the destination, the report said. – TradeArabia News Service