Google changed the game with its traffic estimates, allowing you to better predict when you will actually arrive somewhere. However, the onus is still on you to factor in time to find parking. If you’re not one to tempt parking fate, you’re in luck: a popular parking reservation app has now integrated with Google Maps and Google Search, so you can easily pay for a parking spot in advance or on the go.
Google Maps and Google Search Get SpotHero Integration
A prominent parking reservation app, known as SpotHero, has announced that it’s officially integrating with Google Maps and Google Search. This integration means that you can access SpotHero’s digital parking solutions directly from Google, as you search for locations. So, the next time you’re heading to that concert downtown, you can more easily access alternatives beyond paying the premium for the venue’s official lot.
According to SpotHero’s announcement, you’ll be able to use Google Maps to locate parking around you once you are in the city, easily find a parking lot, and select BOOK ONLINE. This action button will take you to SpotHero’s secure site to complete the reservation. Alternatively, you can find a parking spot in advance, as long as you specify a date and time.
Similar to how Google already characterizes restaurants, SpotHero’s technology tags facilities with their specific offerings, such as wheelchair accessibility, EV charging, and valet services.
The Digitized Parking Revolution Is Here
There’s no doubt that Google Maps has made it easier to travel, whether you’re planning a one-night outing or a family vacation. Now, that planning convenience is extended to parking. Like Uber and Lyft have done for taxi transportation, digital parking reservations apps have made parking cashless. Connecting a leading parking reservation app with Google streamlines the process even further.
I don’t always mind playing the street parking game, and these days, many meters can be paid through digital apps. I am curious to see if this new collaboration will lead to parking lots charging premiums in exchange for convenience. I get it: assuming you’ll find parking is not the same as knowing you have a spot on lock. It’s easy to understand the appeal of trading those fifteen minutes you would have spent driving manically around the block with fifteen minutes spent catching up with friends.
