10 Hidden Features of Google Maps You’re Probably Not Using
Google Maps has evolved far beyond its original purpose of providing directions. Google Maps is packed with features that can enhance your day-to-day life. It offers tools for travelers, commuters, and anyone trying to get the most out of their environment. Here are ten hidden features you might not know about that can supercharge your experience.
1. Offline Google Maps: Navigate Without Internet
One of the most useful features of Google Maps is the ability to download maps for offline use. Whether you’re traveling to an area with poor reception or want to conserve data, this is a game-changer.
How to Use:
- Open Google Maps and search for the area you want to save.
- Tap on the location and select the download button.
- You can access this offline map in your saved areas under the “Your Places” tab.
Pro Tip: Make sure to update your offline maps regularly so you have the most current information.
2. Measure Distances Between Locations
Did you know you can measure the exact distance between two or more locations? This is particularly helpful if you’re planning a hike. It’s also useful for a road trip. You want to gauge how far apart your stops are.
How to Use:
- Right-click on a point on the map.
- Select “Measure distance.”
- Click on other points to create a path and measure the total distance.
Pro Tip: You can switch between metric and imperial units in the settings.
3. Explore Indoor Google Maps
For large locations like malls, airports, or stadiums, Google Maps has indoor mapping. This feature provides a layout of the interior, including stores, gates, and restrooms.
How to Use:
- Zoom into the location in Google Maps, and you’ll notice the indoor layout pop up as you zoom further.
- Click on individual levels or areas to explore.
Pro Tip: Not all venues support indoor mapping, so look for a supported list before heading out.
4. Real-Time Crowd Tracking
Google Maps can show you how crowded a place is in real-time. This feature is a lifesaver if you want to avoid busy restaurants or congested stores.
How to Use:
- Search for a business or location.
- Scroll down to the “Popular Times” section, where a live update will show how busy the place is currently.
Pro Tip: You can also view the average popularity during different days and times to plan your visits.
5. Timeline: View Your Travel History
Google Maps has a “Timeline” feature that tracks where you’ve been if you have location history enabled. It can show you routes taken, places visited, and even photos snapped during your trip.
How to Use:
- Go to the menu and select “Your Timeline.”
- You’ll see a detailed history of where you’ve been, with options to filter by dates or trips.
Pro Tip: This data is private and only visible to you unless you choose to share it.
6. Google Maps Alerts Speed Limits and Speed Traps
Driving with Google Maps has become even safer with built-in speed limit displays and speed trap warnings. Google Maps will inform you if you’re approaching a speed camera or exceeding the speed limit.
How to Use:
- Simply start navigation, and if you’re in a region that supports it, the speed limit will appear on your map.
- If Google Maps detects a speed trap nearby, you’ll get an alert.
Pro Tip: These features are region-specific, so check if they’re available in your area.
7. Parking Availability
Google Maps can estimate how difficult it might be to find parking at your destination. It provides parking suggestions as well, helping you avoid the stress of circling the block.
How to Use:
- When you search for a destination and choose your route, look for a “P” symbol. It will tell you the difficulty of parking: easy, medium, or limited.
- You can also tap on “Find parking” to see nearby lots or garages.
Pro Tip: The parking availability feature is available only in select cities, so check if it’s enabled in your area.
8. Customized Maps: Save and Share Lists
Google Maps allows users to create custom maps, perfect for planning trips or saving points of interest. You can create lists of places you’ve been or want to go and share them with friends.
How to Use:
- Tap on the location you want to save, and click “Save.”
- Organize your places into customized lists like “Vacation Spots” or “Favorite Restaurants.”
- Share the list via a link with friends or family.
Pro Tip: Collaborate with friends by allowing them to add their own places to your shared map.
9. Augmented Reality Walking Directions
For those who often get lost while walking, Google Maps has an AR (Augmented Reality) feature. This feature overlays arrows and directions onto the real-world view through your phone’s camera.
How to Use:
- Search for your destination and choose walking directions.
- Tap the AR icon to see real-time directions overlaid on your surroundings.
Pro Tip: This feature is now available only in select cities but is expanding rapidly.
10. Send Directions with Google Maps from Desktop to Phone
Planning a trip on your computer but want to send directions straight to your phone? Google Maps allows you to send the route directly to your device.
How to Use:
- On your desktop, search for directions to your destination.
- Click the “Send to your phone” option in the top-left corner of the directions panel.
- Choose your phone or email to receive the directions.
Pro Tip: You must be logged in with the same Google account on both devices for this to work seamlessly.
Bonus: See Satellite Views and Time Travel with Street View
Ever wanted to see how a place looked years ago? With Google Street View’s “Time Travel” feature, you can view past imagery from select locations.
How to Use:
- Drop into Street View by dragging the Pegman icon onto the map.
- In the top-left corner, click the clock icon to view older Street View images of that location.
Pro Tip: Use this feature to see changes in your neighborhood or explore the history of famous landmarks.
Conclusion
Google Maps is far more than just a navigation tool. It’s an incredibly powerful resource. It can help you plan trips, explore new places, avoid crowds, and save time. Start experimenting with these hidden features. You’ll find that Google Maps can do much more than just take you from point A to point B!