Google Maps has added a slew of new features to its app that you’ll be able to use on iOS and Android in the coming weeks. The latest update will be more useful in providing you with the best route to take while cycling, and can even alert you when a friend or relative has reached a safe place.
Keep reading to see what the latest features are, plus six lesser-known features we recommend to help make it easier for you to get to your destination. For more, see Hidden Google Maps Tricks for Travelers.
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New: Receive alerts on Google Maps when friends arrive or leave a place
Google has added a new feature to its Maps app that notifies you when a friend or relative arrives or leaves a specified location. For example, if you’re waiting to meet your friend at a concert, you can request to be notified when they arrive at the venue. The person for whom you are requesting information must first share their location with you; They will also be alerted when you send the request and can decline it.
To get started, select your profile icon and tap location sharing, Select the person you want to request location notifications from from the list. Next, choose add To add an address to receive updates from your friend. You will next choose a specified location, as well as when to be notified (arriving or leaving) and tap save,
This feature is currently being rolled out for Android and iPhone users.
NEW: Use Immersive View to experience landmarks in aerial view
As part of the launch of Google’s new Immersive View feature, it is offering aerial views of nearly 100 landmarks in cities such as Barcelona, London, New York, San Francisco and Tokyo. With this update, you can get a virtual view of structures like the Empire State Building. You can see if a building is available by searching for the landmark in Google Maps and going to the Photos section.
NEW: Get more detailed cycle route information
If you bike almost everywhere, you’ll soon be able to compare bike routes to determine which way to go. You’ll also be able to see the altitude, what the traffic is like, and whether there will be stairs or steep hills along the route. Route will show whether you are biking on a major road or local road.
Google said it would roll out this new feature in the coming weeks in cities where cycling directions are available.
1. Use Live View to guide you to your destination on the go
When you park your car five blocks away from your destination, it can be difficult to follow a little blue dot to figure out where you’re going. With Google’s Live View tool, you can hold your phone’s screen to see exactly where you’re going.
This feature uses your camera to scan buildings around you and places a large arrow on the display to help you find the exact location. Here’s how to use it.
1. In the Google Maps app, enter your destination and tap guidance,
2. select the walk icon at the top of the map screen.
3. At the bottom of the screen, tap watch live switch. it is located next to Start switch.
4. Point your camera at buildings and street signs (note that you’ll need to give the app access to your camera). When you start walking towards your destination, big arrows and the street name will appear on your screen to guide you.
2. Download Root When You Lose Phone Signal
It never fails. When you need directions the most, your phone loses its signal. Luckily, Google Maps lets you download your route ahead of time so you never have to worry about getting lost. This trick is especially useful if you’re traveling in an area with poor cell phone coverage.
1. Enter your destination in Google Map Application.
2. at the bottom of the screen, Tap the place name or address,
3. Scroll to the right and tap download,
4. tap download Again. The map of the area you have selected will now be available to you offline.
Use Google Maps offline so you’ll never be re-routed when your phone loses signal.
Sarah Tu/CNET
3. Keep Your Destinations Private With Incognito Mode
A feature for Android and iPhone users lets you stay incognito when using Google Maps. This means that you can hide your location from other map users as well as the places you search. So if you are trying to surprise your special someone with a fancy necklace, then this is what you have to do.
Open the Google Maps app, tap your profile icon in the top right corner and select turn on incognito method, When you’re ready to close the setting, follow the same steps and select turn off incognito mode,
4. Include Multiple Travel Stops to Get Accurate ETA
If Google says your trip will take seven hours, but it will be eight hours, it may be because you haven’t included many stops along the way. Google Maps lets you add stops so you can get more accurate destination times.
1. In the Google Maps app, enter your first destination, such as a gas station or coffee shop.
2. tap guidance,
3. Tap on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
4. tap add stop, Add as many stops as you expect to take.
5. press Complete When you are finished adding stops. Now, you will get a more accurate ETA when planning trips.
5. Find a parking space for your car
Knowing where you can and can’t park your car is essential, especially if you’re running late to work or driving in an unfamiliar location. Instead of driving around and hoping that you’ll eventually find a parking spot, use Google Maps to point you in the right direction.
1. In the Google Maps app, enter where you need to park in or near.
2. tap guidance,
3. Zoom in on location to see all P The icon next to your destination. tap P (for parking).
4. tap add stop, The parking lot will be added as the first stop on your route and you can continue to your next destination.
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6. Use Street View to see real photos of your destinations
Images can be deceiving, so before booking a hotel that looks good, use the Street View feature to see what it looks like on Google Maps first. Next year, Google expects to roll out a new camera all-in-one for Street View to help capture maps and imagery from far-flung corners of the globe.
1. In the Google Maps app, search for a place, such as a hotel you’re considering staying.
2. In the lower left corner, you’ll see a small box with a picture of the building. This is the Street View of the area, so tap it to see what it looks like.
3. You can zoom in and out by swiping your finger on the screen.
Want More Tips? Check out these hidden Google Maps features for travelers you might not have known about.
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