Google Maps now helps you find fresh air
by Thomas Ricker from The Verge - All Posts on (#605KV)
Google integrates hyperlocal data from PurpleAir's network of sensors. | Screengrab by Thomas Ricker / The Verge Google Maps on both iOS and Android has a new Air Quality layer that can be useful when planning your next hike or bike ride in good times, or to plan your escape from smog and smoke in bad.
The new layer displays an Air Quality Index (AQI) overlay directly onto the map grid using government data gathered from agencies like the EPA in the US to show how healthy the air is in general. Better yet, it also presents data collected from PurpleAir's network of sensors to report hyperlocal conditions at the street level. Clicking on the AQI readings dotted around Google Maps provides more information on the health impact of the air quality, time and source of the last reading, and links to learn more.
PurpleAir's relatively low-cost sensors...