From Maps to YouTube, Google’s Go apps are getting meaty updates

• Google is delivering several new features for its lightweight Go apps.
• YouTube Go is getting the ability to browse videos via the phone's gallery app, while Maps Go is getting turn-by-turn directions.
• The Google Go app will also read webpages out loud for users, supporting 28 languages.

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Google's Go apps are handy in emerging markets, consuming less data and storage than the main apps. The search giant isn't stopping there though, announcing new features for three of its Go apps.

Starting with YouTube Go, Google will allow users to browse downloaded videos (in the form of .yt files) in the phone's gallery app. Prior to this, users could only access downloaded clips via the YouTube Go app itself.

This update means users can share clips from the gallery — no need to open the app — and can batch-delete videos. You can't actually watch the clips in your gallery though, as YouTube Go is still required for this. Nevertheless, we might be in for a wait, as Google merely says the update is coming "later this year."

Google Go and Maps Go get new features

Google Maps Go has also received some love, as the Mountain View company has added turn-by-turn voice guidance. This feature, which supports over 50 languages, applies to both traveling in vehicles and on foot. Technically speaking, the feature isn't actually available in the app and requires users to download the Navigation for Google Maps Go app. 

Bizarrely, Google still doesn't allow Maps Go users to download areas for offline access. Sure, cached maps generally occupy a big chunk of storage, but the main Maps app allows users to store these on a microSD card, so what gives?

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Finally, Google Go is getting the ability to read pages out loud, highlighting each word in the process. The search giant says the feature will be available in 28 languages over "the coming weeks."

These updates join a variety of lightweight Android apps released in recent months. Some of the more prominent efforts include Uber Lite, Skype Lite, Facebook's core Lite apps, Instagram Lite, and Twitter Lite.

Keen to try out Google's lightweight apps? Then give them a download via the buttons below. 

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