Update: July 8, 2024 (4:35 PM ET): A Google spokesperson has reached out to Android Authority and provided the following statement:

Promoted pins in navigation are not new – they let people see relevant ads for businesses like gas stations, restaurants, and stores along their route. To avoid driver distraction, these ads do not pop up, expand only if they’re tapped on, and disappear quickly after a short time.

Original article: July 8, 2024 (11:07 AM ET): Google Maps is testing a new ad format that could cause distractions while driving. It brings up a pop-up notification during navigation that covers the bottom half of the screen with an unnecessary detour suggestion.

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