Most of us open Google Maps, type in a destination, and hit “Start.” But if that’s all you’re doing, you are barely scratching the surface. Google Maps has evolved from a simple navigation tool into a powerful travel assistant, social planner, and safety companion.

Here are 7 hidden features that will change the way you navigate the world.

1. Live View: AR Navigation for Walking

Have you ever walked out of a subway station and had no idea which way to turn because the blue dot was spinning? “Live View” solves this using Augmented Reality (AR).

• How it works: Hold up your phone, and the camera scans the buildings around you. Huge arrows and street names are overlaid onto the real world on your screen, showing you exactly where to walk.
• Why use it: It is perfect for complex intersections or confusing city centers.

2. “Popular Times” & Wait Estimates

Nobody likes waiting in line. Before you head to a restaurant or grocery store, scroll down on the business profile to the “Popular Times” graph.

• The Hack: It shows you—in real-time—how busy a place is right now compared to its usual traffic. It helps you avoid the lunch rush or find the quietest time to visit the gym.

3. Download Offline Maps

This is a lifesaver for traveling abroad or hiking in areas with spotty reception. You can save a specific area of the map to your phone storage.

• How to do it: Search for a city (e.g., “Lagos”), tap the name at the bottom, tap the three dots in the top corner, and select “Download offline map.”
• Pro Tip: Your GPS will still work even without data, so you can still see where you are on the map.

4. Create and Share Group Lists

Stop sending messy screenshots of restaurant names to your friends. Google Maps lets you create collaborative lists.

• The Feature: Go to “Saved,” create a new list (e.g., “Saturday Brunch Options”), and click “Share.”
• Why it rules: You can allow your friends to edit the list, meaning everyone can add their suggestions to one map. It makes planning group trips incredibly easy.

5. Measure Distance (The Ruler Tool)

Need to know the straight-line distance between two points, like the length of a park or how far a hotel is from the beach?

• How to use it: Drop a pin anywhere on the map, scroll down, and select “Measure distance.” You can then drag the cursor to create a straight line to any other point.

6. Remember Where You Parked

Never wander around a parking lot pressing your key fob again.

• The Trick: Once you park, tap on the blue dot (your location) and select “Save parking.” You can even add notes (like “Level 3, Row B”) or a photo, and set a timer if your meter expires.

7. Eco-Friendly Routing

You might have noticed a small green leaf icon next to some route options.

• What it means: This route uses the least amount of fuel or battery power, based on traffic, slopes, and road type. It might take a minute or two longer, but it saves you money on gas and reduces your carbon footprint.

Vanguard NEws

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