15 Amazing Google Maps Features You Probably Didn’t Know About
Google Maps is one of the most widely used navigation apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. However, many people only scratch the surface of its capabilities. From AI-powered recommendations to historical exploration, Google Maps offers powerful tools that can enhance travel, daily commutes, and even urban planning.
Here are 15 incredible Google Maps features you should start using today:
1. HistoryPin – Preserve Local History
In partnership with Google, HistoryPin lets users pin historical photos and stories to a global map. This feature helps communities preserve and share their heritage with the world.
2. Conversational Search – AI-Powered Recommendations
Google Maps now offers AI-driven chat assistance, providing smart, personalized suggestions based on your queries. Simply ask for recommendations, and Maps will guide you.
3. Immersive 3D View – Explore Cities in Stunning Detail
Get a cinematic view of locations with 3D models that blend street-level images into immersive visuals—perfect for virtual travel planning.
4. Project Greenlight – Reduce Traffic Congestion
Google’s Project Greenlight uses AI to analyze traffic patterns and optimize signal timing, helping cities reduce congestion and improve commute times.
5. Lens in Maps – AR-Powered Exploration
With Lens in Maps, point your camera at your surroundings to get instant information about nearby shops, landmarks, and more—thanks to AI and augmented reality.
6. Live View – Real-Time Navigation Overlay
Tap the camera icon to activate Live View, which overlays directions, business ratings, and operating hours onto real-world surroundings.
7. AI Recommendations – Smart Suggestions on the Go
If the weather changes or plans fall through, Google Maps suggests alternative activities—like indoor spots when it rains.
8. Street View with Peg Man – Virtual Neighborhood Walks
Drag Peg Man onto the map to explore streets from a pedestrian’s perspective, making it easier to preview locations before visiting.
9. Real-Time Traffic Updates – Avoid Jams
Google Maps provides live traffic updates and even predicts future congestion, helping you plan the fastest route.
10. Accessible Places – Find Mobility-Friendly Locations
Enable ‘Accessible Places’ in Settings to locate wheelchair-friendly entrances, restrooms, and parking spots.
11. Business Insights – Detailed Venue Information
Click the blue briefcase icon to see accessibility options, health protocols, payment methods, and customer service ratings for businesses.
12. Measure Distance or Area – Useful for Planning
Right-click on the map to measure distances between points or calculate the area of a space by connecting multiple points.
13. What’s Inside – Preview Stores Before Visiting
This feature shows store layouts, product availability, and key details, helping you decide where to shop.
14. Ride-Sharing Integration – Compare Uber & Lyft
Google Maps lets you compare prices and ETAs for ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, all within the app.
15. EV Charging Stations – Find Nearby Charging Points
Search for “electric car charging locations” to locate charging stations, making road trips and daily commutes easier for EV owners.
Bonus: How To use Google Maps Offline – Watch Video
How To use Google Maps Offline pic.twitter.com/T8rg4rep2K
— Ketan Tayal 🇮🇳 (@ketan_tayal16) July 13, 2025
Unlock the Full Potential of Google Maps
With these 15 powerful features, Google Maps goes beyond basic navigation, offering smarter travel, historical exploration, and AI-powered assistance. Start using them today to make your journeys smoother and more efficient!
