Lesser-Known Google Maps Secrets You Ought to Explore
Googling Beyond the Basics: Uncovering Google Maps' Hidden Gems
I've been a Google Maps user for yonks, but I've always stuck to the essentials. Today, I decided to roll up my sleeves and dive deep into this handy app, uncovering some neat, underrated features that might have slipped past your radar. From car owners to accessibility seekers, many of these features could save you precious time and energy.
Here's a thrilling list of some of Google Maps' under-the-radar goodies. Some are tailored, but most are universally useful for a smoother, hitch-free navigational experience.
Busy-O-MeterEver wanted to know how bustling a spot is before dropping by? Google Maps offers a chart showcasing a location's popularity levels. Be it a restaurant or store, this feature lets you plan your visits during off-peak hours and sidestep the crowd [1].
** augmented reality**Imagine 3D viewing of your route, including real-time weather and traffic conditions. Well, with this feature, available in over 150 cities, you can [2]. It's a game-changer for anticipating road conditions and potential snarl-ups.
Chit-Chat NavigationNow, instead of typing, you can ask questions like, "What are the best gluten-free spots near me?" and receive personalized results [2]. Google Maps has leveled up its search game with this conversational feature.
Genie in a BottleMeet Gemini, your new personal assistant. Gemini gleans information from reviews, like whether a restaurant offers outdoor seating, and can suggest activities and dining options for a tailor-made itinerary [1][3].
Navigational Show-and-TellUsing your camera, Live View provides real-time directions, helping you navigate new surroundings with confidence and safety [2]. Talk about practical!
List-MakingMFMake, share, and edit lists of places, such as restaurants or landmarks, to organize travel plans or local explorationBlueprint [1][3]. Collaboration becomes a breeze with this feature.
Airport Like a BossAirports are a labyrinth of terminals, gates, and amenities. But worry not! Google Maps simplifies it all by displaying gate locations, terminals, and dining/shopping options to help you make the most of your layovers [5].
Incognito ModePrefer a private ride? Activate Incognito Mode, which keeps Google Maps from saving your location history [3].
Traffic WatchTake a deep breath; Google Maps keeps tabs on real-time traffic updates, guiding you around congested routes and, voila!—saving you time [3].
By incorporating these features, you're guaranteed a more enjoyable, efficient experience with Google Maps. So, go explore, my friend! The world awaits at your fingertips.
[1] https://www.digitalskills4all.eu/en/Resources/Article/973-tips-and-tricks-for-using-google-maps-on-your-smartphone[2] https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/12/18261444/google-maps-live-view-augmented-reality-navigation-leaked-screenshots-galaxys-s10-plus[3] https://www.cnet.com/how-to/google-maps-hidden-features/[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/googlemaps/comments/6dg4nz/feature_request_give_us_a_list_of_easter_eggs/[5] https://lifehacker.com/exploring-google-maps-local-guides-tricks-and-secre-1730486073
- In the future, technology like augmented reality within Google Maps could offer 3D viewing of routes with real-time weather and traffic conditions, providing a more comprehensive navigation experience.
- The 'Busy-O-Meter' feature on Google Maps allows you to care for your energy by planning visits to restaurants or stores during off-peak hours and avoiding busy locations.
- By using the 'Genie in a Bottle' (Gemini) feature, Google Maps can suggest tailor-made dining options or activities based on reviews, making your plans more efficient and energy-saving.
- For a smoother and more organized energy-efficient travel experience, the 'List-Making' feature on Google Maps enables you to create, share, and edit lists of places like restaurants or landmarks for better trip planning.
