In 2005, Google Maps was introduced to the world to help users find their way around,
discover new experiences, and get things done. Since then, the application has pushed the limits of what a map can do.
Google Maps was made available in Singapore in 2009, and in that same year, it became the first country in the world to have both public transport and real-time traffic information made available on the app.
In celebration of its 15th anniversary, Google Maps will feature a new layout with features presented via five easy-to-access tabs: Explore, Commute, Saved, Contribute and Updates.
In the meantime, here are top 10 tips and tricks to help you navigate, explore and get things done in your world with Google Maps.
Don’t get lost
We know it’s hard sometimes to know exactly which direction to go, especially if you’re exploring on foot. Launched as a beta in 2019, Live View points you in the right direction with arrows clearly overlaid in the real world using augmented reality (AR) to guide your way.
Remember where you parked
“Did I park in B2? Or was it B3? Section B or C?” Does that sound like you? Google Maps can save your parking location so you never have a “Dude where’s my car?” moment again.
No data? No problem
Find your way, even when the internet can’t find you. Whether you’re camping in the wilderness or traveling abroad, download a map of an area so you can see directions and use turn by turn navigation even when you're offline.
Translate place names and addresses
In a new country where you don’t speak or read the lingo, but need to get somewhere? Simply tap the speaker icon next to the place name or address and Google Maps will speak out the place in the local language for you.
Indoor maps
Walking around in circles inside huge shopping malls like ION Orchard or J ewel Changi Airport? Fear not, Indoor Maps is here to guide you to your destination with exact pins of your shops across different floors.
Transit details right at your fingertips
Deciding between taking a bus or MRT? Google Maps lets you know the arrival time of your train or bus as well as the vehicle occupancy so you can plan for a more comfortable journey. And if you're running a little late, book a ride directly through Google Maps.
The things you care about; all in one tab
Singaporeans love to be in-the-know for the latest haunts and food places. Keep up with trends tailored just for you, find trending places, newly opened restaurants, foodie lists, and more in the neighborhoods you care about on the “For You” tab.
Plan activities as a group
Got a wishlist of places to visit with your besties during that upcoming trip to Seoul? Planning is now made simple and efficient with group lists in Google Maps, as it gives you the ability to create an itinerary together by adding places to go and things to do as a group.
Website creation was never this easy
Create a simple, free website that looks great and is discoverable on Search and Google Maps in under ten minutes with Google My Business, then customize with your favourite themes, photos, and text.
Incognito mode
On iOS and Android, you can use Incognito Mode to stop searches and places you navigate to on Google Maps from being saved to your account.