Google is making it easier for drivers to find and reserve parking. Starting today, it’s possible to access SpotHero, a service that allows people to book a parking space online, directly through Google Maps and Search.
The next time you use any app to find parking, a “Book Online” button will appear if the lot you found is available to reserve through SpotHero. Tap the button and Google will redirect you to SpotHero’s website, where you can pay for a space over a secure connection. The entire process is handled through Maps or Search, with no bouncing between the app and browser of your choice.
No surprise, it’s also possible to book a parking space ahead of time, with SpotHero providing the option to filter by date and time. You can also search for amenities like EV charging, wheelchair accessibility, and more. Google has been testing the SpotHero integration with select users since April, with today the feature being available to everyone for the first time.
However, even with the expansion, you might not see the feature in your area. According to SpotHero, it’s possible to use its service to book 8,000 spots in 300 cities across the US and Canada. Some of the more notable venues where it’s possible to use SpotHero to secure parking include Madison Square Garden and the SAP Center.
As TechCrunch notes, SpotHero has been finding its way onto more high-profile platforms lately. For example, Lyft has offered a SpotHero integration since 2022. More recently, SpotHero made its way into Apple Maps. For Google, today’s announcement represents the latest attempt by the search giant to keep Maps and Search relevant in two increasingly competitive markets.