Google Maps have become an indispensable tool for over 1.8 billion users worldwide, offering more than just directions. Many users however remain unaware of its advanced features.

Here are some of the features:

1. Offline Maps for Seamless Navigation
One of Google Map most practical features is its offline functionality. Users can download maps of specific locations for use without an internet connection. Simply search for the desired location, tap the name or address at the bottom of the screen, and select “Download.” This feature is particularly useful for travelers venturing into areas with limited connectivity.

2. Real-Time Traffic Updates: Traffic congestion can be a major headache, but Google Maps provide real-time traffic updates to help users avoid delays. The platform also offers predictive traffic data, allowing users to check future conditions and plan their routes accordingly. This feature ensures smoother, more efficient travel.

3. Measure Distances and Areas: For those needing precise measurements, Google Maps offer a built-in tool to calculate distances and areas. By right-clicking on the map and selecting “Measure distance,” users can determine the exact distance between two points. Additionally, connecting four or more points enables the calculation of area, a handy feature for planning or research purposes.

4. 3D View and Live Updates: Google Map new 3D view takes exploration to the next level. It offers detailed, realistic models of locations based on street-level imagery. Combined with live traffic and weather updates, this feature provides an immersive experience, helping users navigate congestion and adverse weather conditions with ease.

5. Street View with Peg Man: For a ground-level perspective, users can utilise the Peg Man feature. By dragging and dropping the iconic yellow figure onto the map, users can instantly access Street View, offering a pedestrian-eye view of neighbourhoods, landmarks, and streets. This tool is invaluable for exploring unfamiliar areas or planning walking routes.

While Google Map is widely recognised for its basic navigation capabilities, its hidden features offer a wealth of additional functionalities. Whether you are a daily commuter, a frequent traveler, or simply curious about the world, these features are designed to make your journey smoother and more informed.

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TECHDIGEST – Following the attacks on Ukraine from Russian forces, which started on Thursday, Google has temporarily disabled some Google Maps tools which provide live information about traffic conditions and how busy different places are for Ukraine.

Reports state that Google has made this move to protect users’ security in Ukraine.

The action involved globally disabling the Google Maps traffic layer and live information on how busy places such as stores as well as restaurants are in Ukraine for the safety of local communities in the country. This was done after consulting with sources including regional authorities.

Referred to as a ‘special operation’ by Russia, the attack has caused nearly 400,000 residents of Ukraine, especially women and children, to flee into neighbouring countries while some men stayed back to defend the country.

Report further states that live traffic information remains available to local drivers using Maps’ turn-by-turn navigation features and with the Google map, Jeffrey Lewis, a professor specializing in arms control and nonproliferation at California’s Middlebury Institute of International Studies, tracked a traffic jam which was the Russian movement towards the border hours before Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the attack.

Lewis alongside some students were monitoring Google Maps when they spotted this unusual accumulation of traffic near the southwest city of Belgorod.

The disabled features use anonymous location data collected from Android smartphones to show where there are traffic delays on roads and which businesses and stores are busy. Experts say such data could offer insight into the progress of the invasion.

Source : Tech economy.ng

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