The ability to book a ride with Uber disappeared from the Android Google Maps app with no explanation; it still gives you estimates and displays the available cars but now provides an "open app" button to perform the transaction.
Google gave no explanation, just a throwaway bullet point in its Request a Ride help section for Google Maps. This brings it into parity with the Apple app, which jettisoned the booking capability a while back. The feature evaporation was first noticed by Android Authority.
Google replied to our request for comment with "We're always experimenting with new features for Google Maps. Based on feedback, we determine whether these changes roll out permanently."
Editors' note: Updated at 3:27 p.m. ET with Google's comment.
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