Russia’s Yandex Maps Enhances Walking and Cycling Navigation

Yandex Maps has rolled out smarter routing algorithms for cyclists and pedestrians, making urban travel smoother and more accurate for users across Russia.

Yandex Maps, Russia’s leading navigation platform, has upgraded its route optimization features for biking and walking. According to Rossiyskaya Gazeta, the app now takes into account a wider range of variables when calculating paths. In addition to average walking speed, the system now factors in elevation changes, traffic light patterns, the availability of bike lanes, sidewalks, and other route conditions.

The improved navigation engine processes more data to make travel routes more realistic and user-friendly. It also monitors user behavior: if a specific route is frequently avoided, the system suggests a more convenient alternative—such as a scenic boulevard instead of a maze of backstreets.

New algorithms provide more accurate travel time estimates by considering delays at intersections and congested zones. Users have already praised the updates, noting that the app feels more intuitive and grounded in real-world conditions. Dozens of travelers across Russian cities have welcomed the enhancements.