7 Essential Google Maps Tricks Everyone Should Know

Google Maps is an indispensable tool for millions of internet users worldwide. However, finding specific details or using all its features effectively can sometimes be challenging. To make the most out of this service, here are some interesting Google Maps tricks that can significantly enhance your experience and make it more useful.

1. Track Your Friends Using Google Maps

Feature Overview

If you’re planning to meet friends or family but don’t know where they are, Google Maps allows them to share their live location with you. This feature not only shows you their current position but also provides updates on their movement and even shows their phone's remaining battery percentage.

How to Use:

1. Open Google Maps on your smartphone.

2. Click on your profile picture and select Location Sharing.

3. Tap Share Location and select the contact with whom you wish to share your location.

To stop location sharing, go back to the Location Sharing screen and tap the Stop button.

2. Use Offline Maps for Seamless Navigation

Feature Overview

Heading to a remote location with no internet access? Google Maps lets you download maps for offline use, so you can navigate without worrying about internet connectivity.

How to Download Offline Maps:

1. Open Google Maps and tap your profile picture.

2. Go to Offline Maps.

3. Download maps for specific areas by selecting Select Your Own Map and adjusting the area you wish to download.

Benefits of Offline Maps:

• Saves Data: Reduces mobile data usage.

• Reliable Navigation: Works even in no-network areas.

3. Get Directions with a Single Click

Google Maps simplifies navigation with a quick method to get directions on desktop:

Steps:

1. Search for the desired location.

2. Right-click on the location on the map.

3. Select Directions to Here or Directions from Here from the menu.

This quick option eliminates the need to manually type your starting or destination points.

4. View or Delete Your Google Maps History

Google Maps keeps a detailed record of your navigation and search activity, which can be useful for reviewing past trips but also raises privacy concerns.

How to Access or Delete History:

On Desktop:

1. Go to the Google Maps website.

2. Open the menu and select Your Data in Maps.

3. View, manage, or delete your location history by selecting See and Delete Activity.

On Mobile:

1. Open the Google Maps app and go to Settings.

2. Select Maps History and then Search Your Activity.

3. Use the three-dot menu to delete specific activities.

5. Enable Incognito Mode

Feature Overview

Want to navigate without saving your activity in Google’s records? Use Incognito Mode on Google Maps. This mode disables search history and notification storage for added privacy.

How to Enable:

1. Open Google Maps.

2. Tap your profile picture.

3. Select Turn on Incognito Mode.

Benefits:

• Ensures privacy.

• Avoids storing location or search data.

• Disables personalized notifications.

6. Save Your Parking Location

Feature Overview

Finding your car in a crowded parking lot can be daunting. Google Maps allows you to save your parking location for easy retrieval.

How to Use:

1. After parking, open Google Maps.

2. Tap the blue location dot and select Save Parking.

3. To find your car later, simply search for “Parking Location” in the app.

7. Tips to Enhance Your Google Maps Experience

Here are a few additional tips to maximize your Google Maps usage:

Tips:

• Explore Nearby: Use the “Explore” tab to find restaurants, attractions, and services in your vicinity.

• Real-Time Traffic: Enable traffic overlays to avoid congested routes.

• Public Transit Info: Get accurate schedules and transit details for buses, trains, and metros.