[morkalork]

Does the directions feature make them money? Or is it just some kpi being tracked?

[kyboren]

Google's business model is basically a fully-automated digital pimp:

Step 1: Surveil the ever-loving shit out of everyone and everything you can

Step 2: Pimp out (via RTB) anyone wandering by to advertisers who want to take a crack at them

Step 3: Profit

This plays into Step 1. If someone even thinks about going somewhere, Google insists on knowing where. Bitch better have my money!

[ydant]

Having directions take you on a route that runs you by an advertising company could conceivably make them a lot of money. I am not suggesting and have no evidence they do that now, but it's not outside the realm of possibility.