Google Maps is so popular that it’s pretty much synonymous with navigation.
And that’s for good reason.
From better walking directions to incognito mode, there’s a bunch to Google Maps just below the surface.
This works for some people, but it can leave others very confused.
In some parts of the world, taking an offbeat route could be a fatal mistake.
before you get going your journey, tap theprofile iconin Google Maps and go toSettings > Navigation.
UnderRoute options, ensure your desired options are selected.
Navigate toGoogle Maps parameters > Navigation, scroll to the bottom, and enableDetailed voice guidance.
After all, inadequate accessibility features may make a location a no-go for some people.
Go toSettings > Accessibilityand enableAccessible places.
Go toGoogle Maps configs > Personal contentto control what the app can display on your profile.
This can be useful if you leave a lot of reviews.
TapLocation Historyto go to theActivity controls.
Tap theTurn offbutton next toLocation Historyto stop Google from logging your Google Maps locations.
you could also tapManage activityto review all previously saved locations and remove them.
Using incognito mode is a quick way to stop some of that tracking.
Tap theprofile iconand selectTurn on Incognito mode.
If this bothers you, turn off search history by going toAccount Settingsand disablingSave recent searches on this gear.
Get rid of unwanted notifications
No one likes receiving unnecessary alerts on their phone all the time.
Make this tweak by going toSettings > Notificationsin Google Maps.
If youre planning a trip to a rural destination, it helps to download maps for offline use.
To download maps, tap theprofile iconin Google Maps and selectOffline maps.
Next, tapSelect your own mapand youll see a zoomed out map of the place youre in.
Just move the blue rectangle over the area you intend to visit and then tapDownload.
Before downloading, Google Maps tells you how much space downloaded maps will occupy on your smartphone.
you’re free to use offline maps for up to 30 days from the date of download.
First, open Google Maps and plot a route.
Then, tap the three-dots icon in the top-right and selectAdd Stop.
This will allow you to add another location.
you’re free to select when you want to leave in theDepart attab, and hitFinished.
Maps will then send you a notification at the time you chose.
Pick the one you like and youre set.
When you look for chargers, the app will then highlight ones that use plugs compatible with your vehicle.
To enable this in Google Maps, go toSettings > Electric vehicle tweaks > Add plugs.
Tapping this will allow you to check public transit timings and available routes for your journey.
This is pretty accurate in many places, but the secret sauce here is the customizability of this option.
To see these, tap theOptionsbutton that appears when you select public transport.
Disable autoplaying videos
Google Maps sometimes shows you video previews for certain locations.
This may sound a bit creepy, but can be a useful safety feature.
To use this feature, tap theprofile iconin Google Maps and hitLocation sharing.
