Google has announced updates to Maps today to help you get the most out of the holidays. The company says that it’s time for holiday trips. Google Maps can help you get around during this busy time of year, whether you’re running errands, going on adventures with friends, or visiting family.
Search with Live View
Google Maps search with Live View was announced in September of this year, along with Neighborhood Vibe, Immersive View, and other features. Pretend you’re in New York for holiday shopping and to see friends. Lift your phone and hit the camera symbol in the search bar to see neighboring stores, cafes, and ATMs.
With AR-powered directions and arrows, you can see where they are and how far away they are, and spot places that aren’t in your immediate view (like a clothing store around the block) to get a sense of the neighborhood at a glance.
To find nearby restaurants, bars, dessert stores, parks, and transit stations, touch on different place categories. Users can see essential information about each area overlaid, such as if it’s open, how busy it is, the pricing range, and if the Google Maps community evaluates it highly.
Find the best charging station for your electric vehicle
If you have an electric car, you may already use Google Maps to discover charging outlets. Now it’s easier to find a car charger. Search for “EV charging stations” and select “rapid charge” to see stations with 50 kW or higher chargers. Users can also look for stations with their EV’s plug type in more countries. Both functionalities are live on Android and iOS in EV-charging countries.
See wheelchair accessible, stair-free places around the world
Accessible locations were introduced in 2020 in Australia, Japan, the U.K., and the U.S. This is on Android and iOS globally. Set Google Maps to “Accessible Places.” If a business has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, you’ll notice a wheelchair emblem on its profile.
Check for accessible seating, restrooms, and parking. This tool, powered by business owner and community donations, can help you avoid stairs if you have a stroller, luggage, or cart. Find the business profile you wish to change, touch “About,” and then “Edit features.” You can add accessibility elements to a business’s profile.
Availability
Beginning next week, visual search experience will start rolling out in London, Los Angeles, New York, Paris, San Francisco, and Tokyo on Android and iOS.
Google’s Find charging stations feature is live now on Android and iOS in countries where EV charging stations are available.
Introducing the features, Amanda Leicht Moore, Director of Product, Google Maps, said:
Tis the season for holiday outings. Whether you’re running errands, exploring new places with friends or traveling to see family, Google Maps can help make navigating this busy season a little less stressful. And today, we’re sharing three updates that will help you explore and get around — just in time for the holidays.
With even more intuitive, sustainable and accessible ways to explore and navigate, Google Maps can help you make the most of your holidays so you can focus on the festivities.