It's hard to imagine a time when Google Maps wasn't available for getting around, but that doesn't mean it can't be improved. The good news is that many improvements are on the way with the new Google Maps update.

The latest Google Maps Beta version has been released, with improved support for ridesharing services, building numbers, crosswalk markers, and more.

Improved ridesharing support in Google Maps is the most important part of this update. There is even a dedicated sub-menu titled "Ride Services" in the settings; getting rideshare information through Google Maps is nothing new, but now Google will send route information to the companies involved. That way, they can get more accurate price quotes.

Currently, only Uber is available in the ride service menu, and you must opt in before Google will begin sharing data to improve fare accuracy. It appears that each rideshare company will need to opt-in. The benefit is that they have the option to avoid companies they do not use or stop sharing data after the fact.

Android Police also noticed no difference in the cost of using Uber with this feature on or off.

As for building numbers and crosswalks, you have to zoom really close on the map to see them. In New York and London the crosswalks are visible, but not in large cities like Los Angeles or Chicago. This data is not supposed to have been added yet.

Building numbers are more prevalent at this point, but as we started looking outside of the larger cities, we noticed that they are not 100% accurate. Still, adding both crosswalks and building numbers would be very useful for people completely unfamiliar with their surroundings.

To become a beta tester for Google Maps, you can sign up through Google Play. Just click the button and download the app from there. Alternatively, you can sideload the APK.

Just be aware that not all of the new features of Google Maps are immediately available. This is because when I first installed the latest version of the beta, I could not see the Ride Service menu.