Google Maps: 10 Essential Features You Didn’t Know About

No matter how often we use Google Maps, there are many features we might not be aware of. The popularity of Google Maps is immense, as drivers find in this app a valuable assistant to navigate quickly and easily to unknown destinations. However, Google Maps is not just a navigation service, but it offers a plethora of features that are continuously enriched, providing even greater assistance to drivers.

1. Routes with the Lowest Fuel Consumption

Google has prioritized reducing the environmental footprint. Users can choose the route that will consume the least fuel. They just need to open Maps, select their destination, tap on the three horizontal dots at the top right, and select “Route Options.” Then, choose “Routes with lower fuel consumption” and the type of engine, such as gasoline, diesel, electric, or hybrid. The route with the lowest fuel consumption will appear on the map, with the default option being gasoline.

The route with the lowest fuel consumption will appear on the map, with the default option being gasoline.

2. Create Your Own Map

Google Maps allows users to create their own map by placing points of interest and other details. This is done via the website google.com/maps. The user should click on the “sandwich” icon at the top left, select “Saved,” then “Maps,” and finally “Create Map.”

3. Control Music While Driving

Google Maps allows controlling music apps like Apple Music or Spotify directly from the app. Open Maps on your phone, go to the main menu, select “Settings,” then “Navigation,” and finally “Music Playback Controls.”

4. Find Where You Parked Your Car

To find where you parked your car, tap the blue dot that shows your location and select “Save Parking Location.” The position will be marked with the letter “P.”

5. Share Location

This feature allows users to see in real time where a friend or family member is. Tap on the profile icon in the search bar and select “Location Sharing.” Set the duration and choose the contacts who can see your location.

6. Find Cheap Fuel

To find cheap fuel, open the app and select “Gas Stations” under the main search bar. Nearby stations and fuel prices will appear.

7. Plan Your Stops

While navigating, you can plan stops along your route. Adding intermediate points will provide a more realistic arrival time.

8. Change Vehicle Icon

While navigating, you can change the default vehicle icon by tapping on the blue arrow and choosing from the available icons.

9. Voice Commands

Android users can activate voice commands by saying “OK Google” and ask questions like “Where is the nearest gas station?”

10. Departure Reminder

Google Maps can send a notification about when to leave to arrive on time at your destination. Enter the departure and destination points, tap the three dots at the top right, and select “Set Departure Reminder.” Choose the time and Maps will send the notification.