In 2005, paper maps were left aside and gave place to the famous “you arrived at your destination”. 18 years ago, Google Maps arrived in the market and revolutionised the navigation system in the world. Millions of people started to use this technological tool that would change forever the way we move around.

Developed by the technological giant Google, for almost two decades Google Maps has been the leader in the navigation applications market. Not even its main competitors, Apple Maps or Waze, have been able to dethrone it over the years. Today, it is an open door to explore the world on foot, by car, by public transport, or even in a wheelchair.

To mark the anniversary of Google Maps, we have gathered some of the most notable features over these 18 years and some of the users’ favourite features.

 

Google Maps is born

On the 8^th of February of 2005, the first desktop version of Google Maps was released. It was presented as a way to help people to move from point A (departure) to point B (destination).

 

Google Earth is released

A few months after the launch of Google Maps, a new way to see the world is born. Google Earth brings 3D images of the planet in a desktop version, with high-definition satellite images that allow virtual navigation and exploration of the world.

 

Real-time traffic arrives

In 2007, Google Maps brings a new feature: it becomes possible to view traffic conditions in real-time in more than 30 North American cities. It is now available in all countries, and it is one of the features most used and appreciated by users in their daily life.

 

The turn of Street View

The 29^th of May of 2007 marked the beginning of Street View, a feature that provides 360º panoramic views and allows users to see various regions of the world at ground level. In order to collect the images, they placed cameras in several cars or even on bicycles for pedestrian locations or narrow streets.

 

After the Desktop… the Mobile

On the 28^th of November of 2007, Google Maps makes the leap from Desktop to Mobile. In September 2008, the first Android app is released and in December 2012 a version for iOS arrived.

 

Hidden gems

Google Maps no longer just helps you to get to your destination, it is now possible to access up-to-date information on the map. The Explore tab displays opening hours, ratings, and prices for restaurants, bars, hotels and petrol stations.

 

Explore the indoors

In March 2011, Google Maps extended the opportunity to explore the interior world. Indoor maps allow you to navigate buildings such as airports, museums, shopping centres, universities, transport stations, or other public places.

 

The offline mode solution

One of the main complaints from users was the need for internet access to navigate the map. Google Maps decided to come up with the perfect solution: in November 2015, the offline mode maps arrive in the market.

 

Inclusiveness in maps

Google Maps is often used for travelling on foot, but we know well enough that not all the paths presented are accessible for people with reduced mobility. In March 2018, wheelchair-accessible routes arrive on Google Maps, available in more than 50 million locations around the world.

 

Live View

In February 2020, Google Maps announces Live View. This feature uses augmented reality to help users understand which route to take through arrows and directions displayed directly on the mobile screen.

 

The age of electric cars

With the expressive increase in the circulation of electric cars in mind, since January 2021 is possible to plan routes especially designed for electric vehicle drivers. The routes take into account the type of vehicle, the current state of charge and the location of the electric charging stations.

 

What are the users’ preferred features?

 

Efficient routes

One of the most stressful times of the day is the journey to work. Whether you are travelling by car or public transport, the ‘Go’ tab allows to pre-define the user’s most common route and receive real-time updates on traffic or transport crowding, estimated journey time and alternative route suggestions.

The fact that it allows adding stops along the route is also one of the main added values pointed out by users. Since 2019, Google Maps also presents speed camera alerts, as well as accident alerts.

 

Favourite places or places you would like to visit

The “Saved” tab is a favourite among users. This feature of Google Maps allows users to mark their favourite places and save those they would like to visit.

Users have saved over 6.6 million places in the app, from restaurants and cafes to places for upcoming holidays. It’s a particularly useful tool when it comes to plan the itinerary of a trip or sharing location recommendations.

Did you know that…?

– Google Maps is used every month by more than a billion people around the world.

– Currently, it is present in more than 220 countries and available in 40 different languages.

– Every day, more than a billion kilometres are travelled with the help of Google Maps.

 

What about you? Has Google Maps revolutionised your life too?