The 7 Best Features From The Latest Google Maps Update

Google Maps and its long list of powerful features like Street View have literally revolutionized the way we see and interact with society. Every city, every town, and every major intersection has been not only charted but photographed and cataloged into the largest and most accurate geographical and informational database the world has ever known. Of course then it only makes sense that Google would continue its quest to total navigation domination by adding even more incredibly convenient and useful features to its already stellar Google Maps interface. In the following paragraphs we'll cover 7 of the best features from the latest major Google Maps update:

1. Sequential Route Preview in Street View – prior to this update you would have to zoom into a particular location in street view and then travel your desired route manually using the mouse to click in the direction you'd like to move. Now you can lock in your directions and then preview the entire route in street view using sequential imaging to take you on a virtual ride down the predetermined path of your choice.

2. More Media and Three-Dimensional Skylines – Google Maps already had 3D skyscrapers in large metropolitan areas, but now this feature has spread to less-known architecture. Along with an enhanced and expanded library of 3D imagery, Google Maps now features an image carousel that provides a slideshow of HD pictures of key places on the map. Furthermore, Google has even improved the design of their small yellow virtual Street View tour guide character, Pegman.

3. Trip/Tour Planning Features – The new Google Maps is equipped with a detailed trip planning module that goes far above and beyond basic point A to point B directions. You can set a trip from one tourist attraction to another or select multiple attractions in your area and Google Maps will automatically create the most economical and quickest route that lets you see all of the places you're interested in. As usual, you can drag and drop the trip directions onto different roads or to different destinations to add an easy detour if you'd like.

4. Traffic Projections Based on Historical and Real-Time Data - Google Maps can now use a real-time traffic report feature to provide more detailed travel times and traffic conditions. In addition, Google has added smarter traffic features that utilize previous historical idea in order to predict how busy a certain road will be during your trip and to provide more accurate travel times.

5. Plane and Train Routes – Google Maps now lets you include air and train travel in your routes, so you can map an entire international trip from start to finish within one interface. Google even helps you find the best flight or train tickets for your trip based on your desired departure time/date and other preferences.

6. Upcoming Event Listings - You can now click on a listing of a venue within Google Maps and you'll automatically be shown upcoming event listings for that venue. For example, you could click on your favorite opera house and instantly view the coming week's show schedules.

7. Related Results Listings - Google now lists related results that you may be interested based on your initial map search. This feature is particularly helpful when you're trying to become acquainted with local entertainment and hospitality venues.