Hidden behind the search bar and side menus of Google Maps are features that elevate this app from a simple traffic guide into a true personal assistant, supporting increased productivity and safety.
Google Maps has many useful features waiting for users to discover.
If you want to use Google Maps like a pro, here are some "hidden" features that promise to give users a more enjoyable experience.
Measure distance along a straight line.
To find the precise distance between two buildings or the length of a plot of land without considering roads, Google Maps has a built-in ruler.
- How to do it: Press and hold any point on the map to place a marker. Drag the "Droped Pin" up and select "Measure Distance". Now, simply move the map to calculate a straight line to any other point the user wants to measure the distance to.
Never get lost in a parking spot again.
Forgetting where you parked in a huge parking lot is a common and frustrating experience. The Google Maps app solves this problem in just two seconds.
- Instructions: Upon arrival, click on the blue dot showing your current location. Select the "Save parking spot" option.
Virtual reality with live view
Walking around unfamiliar cities can be confusing, especially when getting off the subway. The Live View feature uses your phone's camera to project giant arrows onto the real world .
- How to use: Click on your desired destination and select directions, then tap the Live View icon (the lens button near Start). The app will identify buildings and show you exactly where to turn, without you having to read a map.
Share your location in real time.
When returning home alone or wanting family/friends to know where they are, users can share their location in real time.
- How to use: Click on your profile picture and select "Share location". Users can set a specific time (e.g., 1 hour) or share until it automatically turns off. This is an ideal safety tool when traveling or dating.
Offline maps: survival without data
If you're traveling abroad or to an area with unstable network coverage, don't rely solely on 4G or 5G.
- How to do it: Search for a city and in the location menu select "Download offline map". This step will allow users to access directions and navigation even when the phone is in airplane mode.
Refer to location history
Have you ever tried to remember the name of that amazing restaurant you visited three months ago? The "Your Timeline" feature will help you remember it.
- How to do it: If location history is enabled, click on the user's profile and then click on "Your Timeline". Users can view their journeys by day, month, or year.
Travel through time with Street View
Users can easily see what their street looked like 10 or 15 years ago, depending on the data Google has updated.
- How to do it: Find the location you want to view in Street View, then click on the thumbnail with the 360-degree rotation icon (located in the bottom left corner of the screen).
Google Maps has evolved from a navigation tool into a platform that makes things easier and more convenient. Experiencing these features not only simplifies users' daily tasks but also transforms smartphones into much smarter and more powerful devices.
According to Thanh Nien Newspaper
Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/7-thu-thuat-giup-tang-trai-nghiem-google-maps-a485995.html
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