1. Live View for Seamless Navigation

Image Credit: Google

Ever found yourself lost in a sprawling airport or a busy train station? Google Maps’ Live View feature is here to help. By simply tapping the camera icon, you can use your phone’s camera to see real-time directions overlaid on the world around you. This augmented reality tool, which can guide you through places like airports to find gates or exits, is a game-changer for navigating complex indoor spaces or unfamiliar streets.

2. Share 360° Videos with Street View Studio

Image Credit: Google

Want to contribute to Google Maps? With Street View Studio, you can upload and share 360° videos of your travels. This feature lets you manage, track, and search for videos, enriching the Maps experience for others. Imagine capturing a scenic drive through the Himalayas and sharing it with the world—Street View Studio makes it possible.

3. Explore Streets with Peg Man

Peg Man, the little yellow figure in Google Maps, lets you explore neighborhoods as if you were walking the streets yourself. Click, drag, and drop Peg Man onto a map, and you can virtually stroll through iconic places like Times Square or near the Empire State Building in New York City. It’s perfect for scouting a destination before you arrive.

4. Conversational Search with AI

Google Maps now uses AI to offer conversational search capabilities. Need ideas for a rainy day? You can ask for “kid-friendly activities for a rainy day” in a specific area—like North of the Panhandle in San Francisco—and get tailored suggestions. This feature makes discovering new places effortless and intuitive.

5. Detailed Voice Guidance for Walking

Walking in a new city can be daunting, but Google Maps’ detailed voice guidance makes it easier. This feature provides step-by-step walking directions and even describes your surroundings, helping you stay oriented. It’s especially useful for visually impaired users or anyone exploring on foot, ensuring you never miss a turn.

6. Accessibility Information Anywhere

Google Maps now displays accessibility information with the ♿ icon across all platforms, including desktop. Whether you’re looking for wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, or restrooms, this feature ensures that everyone can travel with confidence. It’s a small but impactful update that makes Maps more inclusive.

7. Identify Places with Lens on Maps

Lens on Maps uses AI to identify objects and places in real-time through your camera. Point your phone at a building, sign, or landmark, and Maps will label it for you. This feature is perfect for tourists who want to learn more about their surroundings without needing to search manually.

8. 3D Immersive View for Route Previews

Google Maps’ 3D Immersive View lets you experience routes in a realistic 3D format. Imagine previewing a journey through a city, seeing landmarks in stunning detail. This feature allows you to get a better sense of the terrain and surroundings before you set out.

9. AI-Based Photo Search for Discovery

Google Maps now leverages billions of community-shared photos to enhance search results. Looking for a cozy café or a scenic park? Maps will show you photos alongside search results, helping you visualize your destination. This AI-driven feature makes it easier to find exactly what you’re looking for.

10. Hassle-Free Ridesharing Integration

No car? No problem. Google Maps integrates ridesharing options directly into the app. Enter your destination, choose a service like Uber or Lyft, and book your ride—all without leaving Maps. This feature is a lifesaver for travelers who prefer not to drive, especially in busy cities.

Why These Features Matter

The route from Bhopal to Indore mentioned earlier highlights why Google Maps is indispensable. With 9 tolls on a 186 km stretch, knowing your route, toll costs, and potential delays can save time and money—especially in India, where toll booths can cause significant delays, as noted in a Moneylife article estimating a daily loss of Rs1,272 crore due to idling at tolls. Features like real-time traffic updates, 3D immersive views, and conversational search can make such journeys smoother and more predictable.

Google Maps’ recent updates, like improved traffic predictions using AI (as discussed in a 2020 Google blog post) and expanded Street View data access for local governments (noted in a 2025 Tom’s Guide article), show how the app continues to evolve. Whether you’re navigating Indian highways or exploring a foreign city, these 10 features can transform the way you travel in 2025.

So, next time you open Google Maps, try out one of these hidden gems. Have a favorite feature? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how Maps has made your journeys better!