Google Maps is one of the most helpful apps when traveling abroad, especially for navigation, which is crucial when we are in unfamiliar places.
However, you won’t be able to use Google Maps to its fullest potential if you’re unaware of the various features it offers. To discover the features available in Google Maps, check out the full information below.
Offline Maps
We all know that not every place in the world has internet access. That’s why the Offline Maps feature in Google Maps can be incredibly helpful when traveling to areas with limited or no internet connection.
The Offline Maps feature allows users to download maps of specific areas and access them without an internet connection. You can select an area, such as a city or a particular region, and download the map to your device for offline use.
Even while offline, users can still get directions, view important places, and search for locations, although some features like live traffic updates and real-time route planning will require an internet connection.
Here’s how to download Offline Maps on Google Maps:
- Open the Google Maps app.
- Click on the profile picture in the top right corner.
- Select "Offline Maps."
- Tap "Select Your Own Map."
- Adjust and select the area you want to download by dragging the screen inside the box.
- Once ready, click "Download."
Satellite View
The Satellite View feature in Google Maps allows users to see maps from a satellite perspective, providing a more realistic and detailed view of the Earth’s surface.
With this feature, users can view buildings, roads, green spaces, and landscapes more clearly. Satellite view is particularly useful for checking the surroundings of your destination.
Here’s how to enable Satellite View:
- Click the layer icon on the top right corner of the screen.
- Under the "Map Type" category, select "Satellite."
- Your Google Maps display will switch to satellite perspective.
Traffic Congestion Alerts
The Traffic Congestion Alerts feature provides real-time information about traffic conditions along your route.
Google Maps uses color coding to indicate traffic density: red for heavy traffic, yellow for moderate traffic, green for clear roads, and occasionally dark red for severe congestion.
Additionally, Google Maps offers more accurate travel time estimates, including potential delays due to traffic.
Travel Time and Cost Estimation Based on Transportation Type
This feature allows users to plan their trip by considering different modes of transportation, such as car, public transport, bicycle, or walking.
Not only does it provide estimated travel times for each transportation type, but Google Maps also shows estimated costs, especially for public transport options like buses, trains, or taxis.
With this information, users can choose the most efficient and budget-friendly route, as well as get a more accurate estimate of how long it will take to reach their destination.
Operating Hours of Tourist Attractions
This feature provides useful details about the opening hours of various attractions, such as museums, parks, restaurants, and other destinations.
It helps users plan their visits more effectively by knowing when a location is open or closed.
In addition, Google Maps often includes information on whether a location is open daily, its holiday hours, or any special schedule changes. This information can be found in the "Summary" section on the destination’s Google Maps page.
Nearby Restaurants, Cafes, and Gas Stations
You can also search for specific types of destinations on Google Maps, such as restaurants, hotels, museums, gas stations, pharmacies, and more. The app provides reviews, ratings, menus, and operating hours for each place.
Google Maps also offers directions to these locations, making it easier to plan trips or find food and fuel stops while traveling.
Live View
The Live View feature provides even more interactive and realistic navigation by using Augmented Reality (AR) technology.
When activated, your phone’s camera shows the surrounding environment in real-time while superimposing directional signs, arrows, and street names onto the live image.
However, it’s important to note that Live View is only available for walking directions and only works on phones that are compatible with ARKit/ARCore.
Using Google Maps for navigation can greatly assist travelers while exploring new countries.
With a better understanding of the features mentioned above, you can maximize the use of Google Maps and make your travels much easier.
So, don't hesitate to continue exploring all the features Google Maps has to offer!
