Five Google Maps features you probably haven't tried out yet

Thanks to Google Maps indoor mapping, you can see if that restaurant is really worth going to.

Google Maps, last year’s most popular navigation app in the US, continues to provide its users with new updates. And the platform hasn’t missed the chance to integrate AI, making search and navigation even more user-friendly.

Let’s take a look at some of the features that are supposed to improve users’ trips.

1. Contextual search

Powered by AI, contextual search allows users to find places by entering relevant keywords. For example, pet owners looking for a cafe can find one by searching “dog-friendly cafes.” The search will include a list of places to go, together with photos, ratings, and business details.

2. Live View

The Live View function lets users quickly discover the names of the places they’re close to by simply pointing their phone to the surrounding area. Once the app recognizes where the user is, it will navigate the user towards their destination.

For safety reasons, Google recommends turning off the Live View feature once a user is about to reach their destination.

The feature is only available in select countries.

3. Indoor maps

Sometimes, just seeing images of a place of interest isn’t enough. That’s why Google has indoor maps that help to navigate inside airports, malls, restaurants, and shops.

Users can use the feature by zooming in or out of the building to explore its interior and different floors.

Indoor maps are currently available only in selected locations.

4. Photorealistic view

3D mapping allows users to see a realistic view of various locations, buildings, and sightseeing spots. The function also includes the possibility to see how the area looks in different weather conditions and during different crowd peaks.

5. Offline maps

Considering that not all users have an internet connection at all times, Google has a feature that allows them to navigate the map without being online. To use offline maps, users must sign in to Google Maps, connect to the internet, search for a place, and download its map to their device.

Google notes that this feature is unavailable worldwide due to “contractual limitations, language support, address formats, or other reasons.”