Good news for Android users! Did you know you can enable speed camera alerts directly in Google Maps using a free, fully legal app called TomTom AmiGo? It’s a simple, little-known method that adds radar notifications and speed limits right onto your screen, without compromising your driving experience.
Step-by-step: enabling alerts with TomTom Amigo
To start benefiting from radar alerts, follow these quick steps:
- Download TomTom AmiGo from the Google Play Store.
- Open the app and head to Settings.
- Scroll down to Overlay Mode and activate it by tapping OK.
- Next, activate your device’s speech synthesis feature to receive voice alerts, essential for keeping your eyes on the road.
- Finally, enable the app’s floating widget (pop-up windows) in your phone settings, or it won’t appear over Google Maps.
Once set up, TomTom AmiGo's widget shows radar locations and current speed limits, clearly superimposed onto your Google Maps navigation.
Why use TomTom Amigo alongside Google Maps?
TomTom AmiGo brings several advantages compared to popular alternatives like Waze:
- Detects both fixed and mobile speed cameras, unlike Waze, which primarily flags fixed radars.
- Provides clear, precise alerts, including different radar types.
Be aware, though: accuracy may drop in less-travelled areas, as the app relies heavily on user-generated reports.
Android only: sorry, iPhone users!
Unfortunately, this clever integration only works on Android. Apple’s iOS doesn’t support floating widgets overlaying other apps, so iPhone users will need to use TomTom AmiGo as a standalone app. It's still a good alternative for navigation, compatible with both Android Auto and CarPlay, even if it lacks Google Maps' extensive routing features.
Remember: drive safely and know the law
While TomTom AmiGo is entirely legal in France, showing “danger zones” instead of explicit radar locations, be cautious if travelling abroad. In countries like Germany, radar warning systems are strictly prohibited and can lead to hefty fines.
Ultimately, radar alerts are there to encourage responsible driving, not risky speeding. Always put safety first, with or without technology.
