A recent Wired investigation found major usability issues with Google Maps in the West Bank since the war began. Many users reported that the app led them into dead-ends. It ignored time-consuming checkpoints. It sometimes guided them onto restricted roads to Israeli settlements. Those routes can be dangerous for Palestinians.
The challenges stem from conflict. Road checkpoints change often. Navigation systems can’t keep up. Google said it does not differentiate between roads used by Palestinians and Israelis. It’s too complex to determine residents’ citizenship status. The company said it is working to improve its regional maps.
However, reports say many employees have urged Google to improve its services for Palestinians. Some users in the West Bank have abandoned Google Maps. The company has not resolved these concerns. Many users are frustrated with the app’s lack of reliability and safety in the region.
