Clever on the road These 5 hidden functions make Google Maps even better

An estimated 1.8 billion people in well over 200 countries around the world use Google Maps. You've probably already let the smart service guide you to your destination (or, in some cases, lead you astray?). But did you know that Google Maps is constantly improving and expanding its functions - and adding new ones? We'll show you 5 features that you may not have known about or ever used. It's high time to try out one or two insider tricks!

Please note that certain functions and their instructions may vary slightly depending on whether you use Google Maps on your computer or via an app on your smartphone. There may also be minor differences between iOS and Android, depending on the version you are using. But that won't stop you from getting insider knowledge - because the functions are basically available everywhere, you'll find them with our help. So, let's get started ...

Back to the past!

Initially only available on Android smartphones, this cool but rarely noticed feature has also been available to Apple users for some time now. With the timeline, you can see when you have been to which place, which addresses you have visited, how you traveled from A to B and much more. However, you must first activate the function before you can use it.

This is how it works:

1. open the Google Maps app.

2. tap on your profile picture or initials in the top right-hand corner

3. go to "My Timeline" and select "Timeline" from the menu

4. activate location sharing: If you have not yet activated location sharing, you will be prompted to do so. Follow the instructions to enable location services for Google Maps on your device.

5. check "Location sharing" in your device settings: Make sure that location sharing is set to "Always" or "When using the app".

6. if you have granted all the necessary permissions, the timeline should be activated automatically. You can now view the places you have visited from now on and the routes you have traveled.

As soon as you have activated the function, you can browse through extensive statistics on your trips, excursions and locations in "My timeline" - and of course you can also be beamed back to places - even if only virtually.

Oh Brother, where are you?

Many people have certainly used this practical function when they wanted to meet up with friends (or have lost sight of them) - although probably more on WhatsApp, where the feature is very popular. The same is also available - in principle - on Google Maps. There you can share your live location with the people you want, not only by mobile number, but also by e-mail link.

This is how it works:

1. open the Google Maps app.

2. tap on your profile picture or initials in the top right-hand corner of the screen

3. select "Location sharing" from the drop-down menu

4. tap on "Share new location"

5. select the duration of the sharing (e.g. for an hour or until you turn it off)

6. select the contacts you want to share your location with. You can select people from your contacts or enter a phone number or email address. 7.

7. tap on "Share" to activate location sharing.

Note that it may be necessary to grant additional permissions on your smartphone for the feature to work: On iPhone, go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services. Then scroll to Google Maps and set location sharing to "always" or "when using the app". On an Android phone, go to Settings > Location and activate the location service. Also here for "always" or "only when using the app".

The journey is the destination.

This function is ideal for anyone who commutes to work and wants to know whether everything will run smoothly on the way - or whether delays are to be expected. Google Maps can automatically send or display up-to-date information about the traffic situation on your commute. So if you are going to be late for work or are likely to miss your meeting, you can at least let them know in advance. And make it clear that it's not your fault.

Here's how it works:

1. open the Google Maps app.

2. tap on your profile picture or initials in the top right-hand corner of the screen to open the menu and go to "Settings"

3. select "Commute route".

4. tap on "Set up commute route".

5. enter your start address and destination address. This can be your home and workplace or other frequently visited places.

6. choose your means of transport: choose how you commute (car, public transport, bike, on foot).

7. depending on your mode of transport, you can make additional settings, such as preferred modes of transport or routes

8. activate notifications to receive real-time updates on traffic conditions, departure times and other relevant information. On iPhone, you can do this in the Google Maps app settings by selecting "Notifications" and making sure the required permissions are enabled. On an Android device, you can enable and customize notifications in the device's app settings.

Important note: Depending on the area and region, the function may not be available. Alternatively, you can usually enter your commuting route via the search window on Google Maps, select your means of transport, departure time, etc. and then go to "Directions". You can also see if there are any problems on the planned route, for example traffic jams (including estimated duration) or a train failure - simply without active (push) notifications on your cell phone.

Be realistic ...

For the majority of users, the standard-style map view is usually the better solution. It is clearer and easier to read. But it can make sense (or simply be fun) to see the area you are currently in or the destination of a travel route in a little more detail. That's what the satellite view is for. Here you don't see modeled environments, but the real buildings, parks and sights from a bird's eye view.

This is how it works:

- To switch from the normal view to satellite in the Google Maps app, click the layer icon (two flat squares) in the top right-hand area when you are in the standard search window. There you select "Satellite".

Note that the satellite view consumes more data volume and therefore drains your battery more. So if you are running low on power, let the standard view take you to your destination (and to the nearest power socket).

All in one!

In Switzerland, on your usual routes, it may still be limited. But even here, different public transport providers offer their services. And they usually also have their own apps where you can look up the relevant train, bus, boat or other connection. Things get even more complex (and tedious) abroad. Large conurbations send their regards! This is where Google Maps provides a valuable remedy - because live tracking to (almost) all public transport companies is guaranteed within the app, worldwide. This turns the service into a real public transport information center. In other words:

Here's how it works:

- If you enter your desired route on Google Maps in the search window and select the public transport symbol (train icon), you will be shown every single public transport connection to your destination in perfect order. If you click on an individual connection, you will receive details such as the corresponding bus route, all stops or the capacity of the train you have selected and much more useful information. A real help when you're on the move - and want to keep an overview without having to use different apps all the time. With certain offers, you can even buy tickets online.

We hope you've learned a thing or two that will make your journeys - or your commute to work - a little more convenient in future. Should Google add even more new, innovative insider features to its Maps app: We'll let you know in our newsletter.

Swisscom Newsletter

Keine Tipps mehr verpassen?

Bleiben Sie informiert

You can find attractive offers from Swisscom in our online store. And with our mobile subscription and our Internet subscription, you'll always be connected to the best network in Switzerland.