• The article discusses a new feature introduced by Google Maps that allows users to see the live status of traffic lights along their route. This feature is currently being rolled out in select cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane in Australia. The feature aims to help drivers plan their journeys more efficiently by providing real-time information on traffic light conditions.

• The article explains that the traffic light status feature in Google Maps is powered by data collected from users' smartphones. When a user's phone is connected to the Google Maps app and they are driving, the app can detect when the user is approaching a traffic light and report the light's current status back to Google's servers. This crowdsourced data is then used to update the traffic light information displayed in the app.

• The article notes that the traffic light status feature is a valuable addition to Google Maps, as it can help drivers avoid unnecessary stops at red lights and improve the overall efficiency of their journeys. The feature is currently available in select cities, but the article suggests that it may be expanded to more locations in the future as Google continues to improve and expand its mapping services.