Think Google maps is only for directions? These features will surprise you

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Google Maps has become a necessity in every smartphone these days, but most people use it only to find directions from one place to another. If you're one of them, you're completely unaware of its many amazing and secret features. Indeed, Google Maps is no longer just a simple navigation app; it has become your full-fledged "digital travel assistant." If you learn some of its key features, you can not only avoid heavy traffic jams but also easily reach your destination even without internet. Let us tell you about some of its amazing features, which will completely transform your travel experience.

You can find directions without the internet and find your car in no time

Sometimes, during long journeys, the network suddenly disappears, making finding your way a major challenge. To deal with such situations, Google Maps' "Offline Maps" feature is nothing short of magical. You can download the map of the city or area you're visiting in advance by going to your profile. After this, you'll have no problem finding your way even in areas with poor network. Furthermore, if you forget where you parked your car in a crowded area, there's no need to worry. After parking, select the "Save Parking" option in Maps. When you return, click "Parking Saved" to directly access your car. For your convenience, you can also add photos of the parking area and important notes.

From trip planning to toll tax expense, complete accounting

If you're planning a trip with friends or family, Google Maps can make your planning incredibly easy. You can create a new list from the app's "Saved" tab and share it with your entire group using the share button. This makes for great trip planning in minutes. Furthermore, the app also accurately estimates the toll plaza costs along the way. When you enter your destination, go to the route options and select a tolled route. Google Maps will show you the estimated toll cost along the way, helping you plan your trip within your budget.

Avoid crowds and keep a complete record of your past travels

Before visiting any popular mall, market, or tourist spot, you can easily estimate the crowd there from the comfort of your home. After searching for any place, you can easily see how crowded it is at that time by going to the 'Popular Times' section. This can save you precious time. Furthermore, if you want to remember where you visited in the past days, its 'Timeline' feature keeps a complete record of your visit. By tapping on your profile photo and selecting the 'Your Timeline' option, you will get detailed information about all your past trips. However, to take advantage of this feature, your phone's location history must be turned on.

Airport-mall route and AI-based reviews

People often assume that Google Maps only shows street directions, but you'll be surprised to learn that it also provides excellent navigation inside major malls, metro stations, and airports. Searching for a location and zooming in on the map will reveal a "Floor Selector" option, allowing you to easily view the shops, washrooms, and routes inside. Furthermore, the app also includes a powerful AI feature called "Know Before You Go." When you search for a hotel or restaurant, the AI ​​technology automatically analyzes thousands of reviews and creates a concise summary. After searching for a location, scrolling up the info card will reveal this section, allowing you to access all the necessary information and feedback before you even visit.