We’re definitely no strangers to Google Maps – it’s our trusty companion when we need to search for locations on the go, or figure out the fastest way to get to that ulu gathering location via public transport.
But did you know you can book an Uber or Grab straight from Google Maps, and get real-time transit bus information on the app? We test out some of its new features to see how exactly they make life easier.
If you’re planning your journey and decide it’d be better to take a cab, you can book an Uber or Grab straightaway without having to launch the respective apps.
See that little man with his hand raised among the other icons of your transport options? Uber and Grab are also placed as options to consider when you’re looking at public transport.
One benefit: Google works with the Land Transport Authority to give real-time updates on buses in Singapore, so you know exactly when your bus is arriving while checking out the route to take.
It’s great that we can see the whole list of bus stops each bus service covers, together with the estimated time of arrival at each stop. You can also track your bus in real-time with the bus icon moving down the list of stops.
If you’re looking for a store in the mall but just can’t seem to find the shopping directory, Google Maps will be your saving grace. It has more than 110 venues in Singapore mapped, with shopping malls enabled with Indoor Maps include 313@Somerset, Vivo City and ION Orchard. MRT stations like Orchard, Raffles Place and City Hall have also been mapped.
Keep track of all your favourite restaurants, bars, boutiques and more in different locations, using the new “lists” feature. All you have to do is click “save” when you’re checking out information on a particular place, and choose to park it under generic lists on the app, or create your own, like “Best sushi in town”. Share your lists with your friends and they’ll be able to easily find directions to your recommended places.
This feature is a breeze to use, and is also wonderful for sharing your holiday itineraries, so you don’t have to painstakingly compile the addresses of places you loved.
Crowds are easily our greatest enemy. Use Google Maps to figure out the peak timings at certain places, so as to avoid jostling with the whole of Singapore. This is especially relevant for restaurants; this means you’ll know when your favourite food haunt is least busy and avoid wasting time on queuing.
Unsure of what to eat for dinner? Google Maps could very well be the saviour of indecisive people, with curated lists of places you can dine at under the places tab. Find recommendations for “cheap eats” or “best cafes”, or even everyday spots like ATMs and gas stations around you in just one tap.
In case you didn’t know, it’s possible to download maps and access them offline. Now, you can even search for various establishments offline, from restaurants to bars. Happy browsing!
Text: Loh Pui Ying/HerWorldPlus