"Elevator Instead of Stairs"... Naver Map Introduces 'Stair-Avoidance' Feature for Directions

Naver announced on August 1 that it has added a stair-avoidance route guidance feature to the public transportation directions in its map service.

The stair-avoidance feature is designed to help users conveniently reach their destinations even in situations where using stairs is difficult.

Naver announced on the 1st that it has added a stair avoidance route guidance feature to the public transportation navigation in its map service. Photo by Naver

When users select the stair-avoidance option while searching for public transportation routes, the service provides routes that include subway station exits equipped with elevators instead of stairs. Within subway stations, users can also check information on the fastest exits and transfers based on locations near elevators.

Naver is continuously enhancing information on facilities such as stairs and elevators. Last year, the company signed a "Station Convenience Information Provision Agreement" with the National Railroad Authority and expanded data on ▲ routes and transfers for transportation-vulnerable individuals ▲ pathways between exits and platforms ▲ locations of nearby elevators in each station.

Naver expects that the new public transportation stair-avoidance feature will help improve the convenience of users' journeys. Not only transportation-vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, but also users carrying bicycles or dragging suitcases can receive routes that avoid stairs.

The stair-avoidance feature is also available in multiple languages (English, Chinese, and Japanese), allowing foreign tourists using public transportation to utilize the service as well.

Lee Sumi, leader of Naver Map Service, said, "This new public transportation stair-avoidance feature was planned to accommodate a variety of mobility situations, not only for transportation-vulnerable users who use wheelchairs but also for those pushing strollers or carrying heavy luggage, following the introduction of the pedestrian stair-avoidance feature in April last year. Going forward, Naver Map will continue to enhance the timeliness and accuracy of its data as a lifestyle platform that closely supports all daily mobility needs, creating an environment where everyone can move conveniently and safely."