Realme time AQI monitoring is available in over 40 countries. (Image credit: Google)
Google has rolled out a new feature, allowing Indian users to check the real-time average air quality index (AQI) within its Maps app across the country. Besides offering insights on air quality, the Maps app, which currently clocks over 2 billion active users, also offers tips and insights based on the severity of air quality.
According to Google Maps, AQI is updated every hour, and users can access the air quality of any location in India. The feature is available in more than 40 countries.
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“Google Maps now provides hyperlocal air quality indexes (AQI) across India. Users in India can access this information directly within the app. The Air Quality layer is currently available in 40+ countries around the world on Google Maps, including the U.S., Australia, Israel, Chile, Singapore, and more.”
Google Maps offers AQI-related information in an easy-to-understand format, which is measured using the pollutants in a given area, ranging from 0 to 500.
1. 0 to 50 is considered good
2. 51 to 100 is considered satisfactory
3. 101 to 200 is considered moderate
4. 201 to 300 is considered poor
5. 301 to 400 is considered very poor
6. 401 to 500 is considered severe
The air quality is then represented using different colours, ranging from green for good, and red for severe.
Depending on AQI, Google Maps also offers a caution note on how it can affect the general and vulnerable populations. In case of severe AQI, Google Maps recommends the general population avoid outdoor activity, and suggests that those vulnerable remain indoors. If you live in a place with poor or severe AQI, it is recommended to get an air purifier, and here is a detailed guide to choosing the right one.
How to check the air quality of your location
AQI can be accessed from both desktop and also on mobile. (Image credit: Google)
To know about your location’s air quality, open Google Maps > click on the layers icon and select air quality, which will show the real-time AQI of your place. Similarly, if you are planning to travel somewhere, you can also check the air quality of that place using the same method.
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