Google Maps Unveils New ‘Know Before You Go’ & Trending Features
▼ Summary
– Google Maps is introducing a “know before you go” feature that provides insider tips like parking advice and secret menu items from user reviews and online sources.
– The “know before you go” feature is currently rolling out in the U.S. on both Android and iOS devices.
– The Explore tab in Google Maps now shows trending nearby restaurants, activities, and sights sourced from platforms like Viator and Lonely Planet.
– Google is allowing reviewers to use nicknames instead of their real names while maintaining that reviews are still linked to their Google accounts to prevent spam.
– The nickname feature and trending Explore tab are rolling out globally this month across Android, iOS, and desktop platforms.
Planning your next outing just became significantly easier with the latest updates to Google Maps. The platform is introducing a suite of new functionalities designed to provide deeper insights into local businesses and events, alongside giving users more control over their public identity. These enhancements aim to transform how people discover and interact with places in their vicinity.
A new “Know Before You Go” section is now appearing for place searches within the app. This feature compiles practical advice and insider tips gathered from user reviews and various online sources. You might find information on parking availability, how to snag a reservation, the location of the entrance, or even details about unadvertised secret menu items. This collection of crowd-sourced knowledge is currently launching for users in the United States on both Android and iOS devices.
Simultaneously, the Explore tab is receiving a boost with a “Trending” section. By swiping up on the tab while viewing the map, you can discover popular and trending restaurants, activities, and local sights. Google curates these recommendations from a mix of established sources like Viator, Lonely Planet, and OpenTable, as well as content from local social media influencers. This global rollout is happening this month across Android and iOS.
In a move focused on user privacy and comfort, Google is now permitting reviewers to use a nickname for their public profile instead of their real name. The company assures that this change will not lead to an increase in spam. All reviews remain tied to the user’s Google Account behind the scenes, allowing their anti-spam systems to continuously monitor for suspicious or fake content around the clock. This nickname feature is rolling out globally this month and will be available on Android, iOS, and desktop platforms.
(Source: Search Engine Land)
