Google Maps is a desktop and mobile GPS mapping service that offers street maps, satellite imagery, 360° panoramic views, route planning, and real-time traffic conditions.
Google Maps includes various other modules including Business View, Street View, Aerial View, Latitude, Ride Finder, and more.
Software by Google
google.com
Pricing
Pricing options
Free
Value for money
Devices
Business size
S
M
L
Markets
United States, Asia, Australia, Brazil, Canada and 9 other markets, China, Europe, Germany, India, Japan, Latin America, Mexico, Middle-East and Africa, United Kingdom
Supported languages
Arabic, Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), Czech, Danish and 22 other languages, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Hebrew, Hungarian, Indonesian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Taiwanese, Thai, Turkish, Ukrainian
I like Google Maps because they've mastered the art of providing lots of features without making their application difficult to use or junky. I prefer this over the Maps app that comes with my iPhone because it's much easier to edit my trip. If I don't want to take a certain bridge or highway, Google Maps can show me alternate routes and the additional time it would take in one tiny place on the screen. I also love the audio settings. I use the GPS even when I know exactly how to get somewhere so that I can have the other information that the app provides like traffic updates, crashes ahead, and alternate routes that might make more sense to take as traffic picks up. I can set the audio to "alerts only" so that I can hear my music without all of the turning instructions, just the traffic alerts. I've also noticed that Google Maps memorizes maps. When I lose signal on my phone, I don't lose the GPS because Google Maps has already saved my trip in its memory. As a new driver, that made me feel really safe and assured. Lastly, I discovered another feature that I use all the time now. I live near a huge outlet mall and it was always a hassle to know which door was closest to the store that I wanted to go into. But one day, I put a store in my GPS (not knowing it was in that outlet mall) and Google Maps actually took me to the best entrance for that specific store. I love Google Maps and I wouldn't use another GPS application.
I like Google Maps because they've mastered the art of providing lots of features without making their application difficult to use or junky. I prefer this over the Maps app that comes with my iPhone because it's much easier to edit my trip. If I don't want to take a certain bridge or highway, Google Maps can show me alternate routes and the additional time it would take in one tiny place on the screen. I also love the audio settings. I use the GPS even when I know exactly how to get somewhere so that I can have the other information that the app provides like traffic updates, crashes ahead, and alternate routes that might make more sense to take as traffic picks up. I can set the audio to "alerts only" so that I can hear my music without all of the turning instructions, just the traffic alerts. I've also noticed that Google Maps memorizes maps. When I lose signal on my phone, I don't lose the GPS because Google Maps has already saved my trip in its memory. As a new driver, that made me feel really safe and assured. Lastly, I discovered another feature that I use all the time now. I live near a huge outlet mall and it was always a hassle to know which door was closest to the store that I wanted to go into. But one day, I put a store in my GPS (not knowing it was in that outlet mall) and Google Maps actually took me to the best entrance for that specific store. I love Google Maps and I wouldn't use another GPS application.
Pros I like Google Maps because they've mastered the art of providing lots of features without making their application difficult to use or junky. I prefer this over the Maps app that comes with my iPhone because it's much easier to edit my trip. If I don't want to take a certain bridge or highway, Google Maps can show me alternate routes and the additional time it would take in one tiny place on the screen. I also love the audio settings. I use the GPS even when I know exactly how to get somewhere so that I can have the other information that the app provides like traffic updates, crashes ahead, and alternate routes that might make more sense to take as traffic picks up. I can set the audio to "alerts only" so that I can hear my music without all of the turning instructions, just the traffic alerts. I've also noticed that Google Maps memorizes maps. When I lose signal on my phone, I don't lose the GPS because Google Maps has already saved my trip in its memory. As a new driver, that made me feel really safe and assured. Lastly, I discovered another feature that I use all the time now. I live near a huge outlet mall and it was always a hassle to know which door was closest to the store that I wanted to go into. But one day, I put a store in my GPS (not knowing it was in that outlet mall) and Google Maps actually took me to the best entrance for that specific store. I love Google Maps and I wouldn't use another GPS application.
Cons The only bad thing I can say about Google Maps is that it doesn't always know which direction I'm facing, which can be tricky. There's an arrow that follows along the path and shows you whether you're going in the same direction of the path or not. There were times when the arrow was pointing in a different direction than the path so, I made a U-Turn and later realized that I was actually going in the right direction before.
When I'm online and I want to check to see how far someplace is from me, Google Maps is definitely the place I go to check. So I do use it a lot. And it is integrated into a lot of websites, so you can get directions from it, but I have learned the hard way that the directions Google Maps provides are not always that great. And when you're on a motorcycle, going somewhere you've never been before, that is not the time to have your GPS directions suddenly mess up. And that has happened more times than I can say. In one sense, the feature of being able to put yourself on the street and get a 360 view of what ANY place looks like is nice, because you know what to look for when you're arriving some where new. However, when I was looking up an address near me, out of curiosity, I swiped the map over my own house, and it was a little creepy to have a satellite view of my house, with my motorcycle and car in the driveway. It's a little Big Brother-ish to me, which is something that has been starting to really bother me a lot lately. I mean, really? Google now either has their own satellites or can access satellite views of the entire world? I thought that stuff was reserved for the government and the CIA. Yes, it integrates with a lot of platforms, as all Google products do. Yes, it has nice features and you can find out a lot of information through Google Maps. But ... again, do you really want a company that knows almost everything about you because of their seamless integration into your life and observation of everything you do, say, buy, sell, look at, search for, etc. online to include observation by satellite to such a detailed degree that you can see your exboyfriend sitting on your back porch smoking? And if they can do that, then how come they can't get the directions right?
When I'm online and I want to check to see how far someplace is from me, Google Maps is definitely the place I go to check. So I do use it a lot. And it is integrated into a lot of websites, so you can get directions from it, but I have learned the hard way that the directions Google Maps provides are not always that great. And when you're on a motorcycle, going somewhere you've never been before, that is not the time to have your GPS directions suddenly mess up. And that has happened more times than I can say. In one sense, the feature of being able to put yourself on the street and get a 360 view of what ANY place looks like is nice, because you know what to look for when you're arriving some where new. However, when I was looking up an address near me, out of curiosity, I swiped the map over my own house, and it was a little creepy to have a satellite view of my house, with my motorcycle and car in the driveway. It's a little Big Brother-ish to me, which is something that has been starting to really bother me a lot lately. I mean, really? Google now either has their own satellites or can access satellite views of the entire world? I thought that stuff was reserved for the government and the CIA. Yes, it integrates with a lot of platforms, as all Google products do. Yes, it has nice features and you can find out a lot of information through Google Maps. But ... again, do you really want a company that knows almost everything about you because of their seamless integration into your life and observation of everything you do, say, buy, sell, look at, search for, etc. online to include observation by satellite to such a detailed degree that you can see your exboyfriend sitting on your back porch smoking? And if they can do that, then how come they can't get the directions right?
Pros When I'm online and I want to check to see how far someplace is from me, Google Maps is definitely the place I go to check. So I do use it a lot. And it is integrated into a lot of websites, so you can get directions from it, but I have learned the hard way that the directions Google Maps provides are not always that great. And when you're on a motorcycle, going somewhere you've never been before, that is not the time to have your GPS directions suddenly mess up. And that has happened more times than I can say. In one sense, the feature of being able to put yourself on the street and get a 360 view of what ANY place looks like is nice, because you know what to look for when you're arriving some where new. However, when I was looking up an address near me, out of curiosity, I swiped the map over my own house, and it was a little creepy to have a satellite view of my house, with my motorcycle and car in the driveway. It's a little Big Brother-ish to me, which is something that has been starting to really bother me a lot lately. I mean, really? Google now either has their own satellites or can access satellite views of the entire world? I thought that stuff was reserved for the government and the CIA. Yes, it integrates with a lot of platforms, as all Google products do. Yes, it has nice features and you can find out a lot of information through Google Maps. But ... again, do you really want a company that knows almost everything about you because of their seamless integration into your life and observation of everything you do, say, buy, sell, look at, search for, etc. online to include observation by satellite to such a detailed degree that you can see your exboyfriend sitting on your back porch smoking? And if they can do that, then how come they can't get the directions right?
Cons Upon reflection, it appears that most of the things I listed in the pros section of this review are actually pretty negative, and I have to say, that is my general feeling about Google Maps. It's like undressing in front of an open window - there's no privacy at all anymore with Google. Ever wonder why they offer so many things for free? Look what they're getting in return - they know every detail about you. And even with this satellite sky-stalker ability, and all the nice little features they include on their app, the directions are almost always wrong when I've used it. Or clicking the "no tolls" option (because who wants to dig for change while they're on a motorcycle?) and surprise? They still send you via the toll road option. Or the GPS loses connection in the middle of a trip and you're no longer getting instructions via the earpieces in your helmet. I use Waze for all my travel needs now and it has never let me down. For a quick look up online if I need to know something, sure I'll use Google Maps. But that's about as far as I trust it anymore.
This is one of my most used apps that I could not live without
Used daily for 2+ years
Reviewed 2018-04-10
Review Source: GetApp
Google Maps is an absolute must for any of my navigational needs. It has reshaped the way people drive. There are no more needs to have paper maps. The searching feature of google maps is very friendly using normal language. Just ask google maps to find the best place for ice cream near me and it does it. The reviews and photos that people add to the maps are very helpful in deciding where to go.
It is also a great way to avoid traffic as it updates in real time.
I love the feature that you can use voice search while already on a rout to find pit stops such as gas stations along the route and it tells you the extra amount of time it will take before you decide what extra stop to add.
Google Maps is an absolute must for any of my navigational needs. It has reshaped the way people drive. There are no more needs to have paper maps. The searching feature of google maps is very friendly using normal language. Just ask google maps to find the best place for ice cream near me and it does it. The reviews and photos that people add to the maps are very helpful in deciding where to go.
It is also a great way to avoid traffic as it updates in real time.
I love the feature that you can use voice search while already on a rout to find pit stops such as gas stations along the route and it tells you the extra amount of time it will take before you decide what extra stop to add.
Pros Google Maps is an absolute must for any of my navigational needs. It has reshaped the way people drive. There are no more needs to have paper maps. The searching feature of google maps is very friendly using normal language. Just ask google maps to find the best place for ice cream near me and it does it. The reviews and photos that people add to the maps are very helpful in deciding where to go.
It is also a great way to avoid traffic as it updates in real time.
I love the feature that you can use voice search while already on a rout to find pit stops such as gas stations along the route and it tells you the extra amount of time it will take before you decide what extra stop to add.
Cons The navigation no longer will reroute users to side streets.
The desktop version used to have a feature that would show you photos taken by users in the area. I would often use this to scout shooting locations for my business. This feature is either hidden or no longer in service. This function would be a great resource to me if it was added to the phone app.
The Google MyMaps feature is a great idea but falls flat do to security issues. ANyone with access to your specific map can easily copy the map and reuse it for their own purposes. I would like the ability to share my maps that I have created with others without the fear that they can copy it and share it with others whom I do not want them to have access to my content.
Google Maps is a great service that beats almost every other mapping service. I use it personally and for business:
1) It just works! Google maps are accurate and detailed, in most cases you can easily find what you are looking for. The voice navigation is mostly on point, though it can be a bit misguided at times. You can follow the
2) Business listings on Google Maps are a godsend, being able to find a business listing on Google Maps is much more intuitive than say Apple Maps. Also simply adding a location link from say Whatsapp usually gets the location on point
3) Maps API is good for developers. It is easy to build apps on top of Google Maps and you get instant access to the accuracy and depth of Maps, we have used it to plug into our applications that rely on mapping.
4) Offline functionality is very useful. Even if you do not have a connection, you can still use Google Maps to find your way around.
Google Maps is a great service that beats almost every other mapping service. I use it personally and for business:
1) It just works! Google maps are accurate and detailed, in most cases you can easily find what you are looking for. The voice navigation is mostly on point, though it can be a bit misguided at times. You can follow the
2) Business listings on Google Maps are a godsend, being able to find a business listing on Google Maps is much more intuitive than say Apple Maps. Also simply adding a location link from say Whatsapp usually gets the location on point
3) Maps API is good for developers. It is easy to build apps on top of Google Maps and you get instant access to the accuracy and depth of Maps, we have used it to plug into our applications that rely on mapping.
4) Offline functionality is very useful. Even if you do not have a connection, you can still use Google Maps to find your way around.
Pros Google Maps is a great service that beats almost every other mapping service. I use it personally and for business:
1) It just works! Google maps are accurate and detailed, in most cases you can easily find what you are looking for. The voice navigation is mostly on point, though it can be a bit misguided at times. You can follow the
2) Business listings on Google Maps are a godsend, being able to find a business listing on Google Maps is much more intuitive than say Apple Maps. Also simply adding a location link from say Whatsapp usually gets the location on point
3) Maps API is good for developers. It is easy to build apps on top of Google Maps and you get instant access to the accuracy and depth of Maps, we have used it to plug into our applications that rely on mapping.
4) Offline functionality is very useful. Even if you do not have a connection, you can still use Google Maps to find your way around.
Cons My biggest frustration with Google Maps is when recalculating directions to a location, it always uses the main route, in many cases there are other routes that can be used but it seems it only can only handle 2 alternative routes not more than that.
Integration with Calendar ensures I am always on time
Used weekly for 2+ years
Reviewed 2018-02-17
Review Source: GetApp
In my experience, it has always proven to be the most accurate for directions. I love that I can see traffic and be alerted when there are accidents with automatic route changes to prevent me from getting stuck in traffic. When I add calendar events to Google Calendar, I enter the location of my destination and my calendar alerts me at my requested interval and includes traffic analysis. I have examples of times I would intend to leave for a client's 20 minutes in advance but my calendar notification displayed letting me know there was heavy traffic and the estimated travel time would be 35 minutes. Without Google Maps and calendar integration, I am empowered with the tools to be consistently on time.
In my experience, it has always proven to be the most accurate for directions. I love that I can see traffic and be alerted when there are accidents with automatic route changes to prevent me from getting stuck in traffic. When I add calendar events to Google Calendar, I enter the location of my destination and my calendar alerts me at my requested interval and includes traffic analysis. I have examples of times I would intend to leave for a client's 20 minutes in advance but my calendar notification displayed letting me know there was heavy traffic and the estimated travel time would be 35 minutes. Without Google Maps and calendar integration, I am empowered with the tools to be consistently on time.
Pros In my experience, it has always proven to be the most accurate for directions. I love that I can see traffic and be alerted when there are accidents with automatic route changes to prevent me from getting stuck in traffic. When I add calendar events to Google Calendar, I enter the location of my destination and my calendar alerts me at my requested interval and includes traffic analysis. I have examples of times I would intend to leave for a client's 20 minutes in advance but my calendar notification displayed letting me know there was heavy traffic and the estimated travel time would be 35 minutes. Without Google Maps and calendar integration, I am empowered with the tools to be consistently on time.
Cons One con could be that using Google Maps requires service so depending where you are traveling, this could be a problem. However, once you start a route and get directions, I believe it downloads the route so it can always finish to completion even in no-service areas. Also, if you plan ahead knowing you will be in no-service areas, you can download areas of a map offline which is very helpful. The only other con I can think of is that Maps often tracks your history by default which proves helpful at times but if you have privacy concerns, you will need to explore your settings and disable this.
How does Google Maps compare with other Marketing apps?
Subscription plan?
Google Maps
98% of apps offer a subscription plan
Free trial?
Google Maps
83% of apps have a free trial
Free plan?
Google Maps
28% of apps have a free plan
Pricing Comparison
Marketing app prices shown are $/month
Please note: For comparison purposes the price for Google Maps has been scaled monthly. Actual price is $/per year
Google Maps Pricing Reviews
Pros
Google Maps has made lot's of things easier in terms of finding the right directions and reaching the destinations. They have fairly accurate traffic predictions and best routes.
As someone who travels a lot and uses public transport daily this app has been my saviour multiple times. Doesn't matter what country I am in and compared to a lot of other map apps that makes a huge difference. It is also useful when I want to find a nice place for lunch or coffee in the area I am in or if I want to know how much a taxi would cost me.
Being a community map, it's always complete and has up to date information. It's amazing how smart it is, so if you want to go somewhere to eat you can just write restaurants and it'll show you everything you need to know around you! Also, one of the best features is to be able to download the maps, especially when you are traveling and you don't have internet access. The smart traffic when driving alwas works perfectly. Best map app ever!
The integration with other Google Apps is a huge bonus, and the continual upgrade of the mobile and web app adds new value to the user experience. Beyond basic mobile navigation capabilities, Maps has many commercial uses on websites and blogs. The level of location detail is impressive and the map information overlays are also helpful. The ability to 'send' maps and directions from your desktop app to your mobile phone is a very useful feature.
Cons
Sometimes the app gets confused with sides of the road or cul de sacs but a bit of on the spot thinking usually makes it easy to figure out.
There are some inconsistencies in the map routes. Sometimes you end up at the wrong places too. It doesn't work well with low mobile data quality like 2G or 3G.
I'm sometimes confused by the bookmarking capabilities. You can save a location in multiple ways and I sometimes forget that I used 'favorites' to store a location for future access.
Sometimes the star-rating is not as accurate as it could be. There should be a better way to qualify the different aspects of a place. Also, it would be great if there was a pricing characterization.
Measure distances between two points and get various options for directions, whether by car, foot, transportation, bicycle or taxi.
Users can see detailed traffic, transit, biking, and terrain info, including bus arrival times.
Users can search for a place or type of business, and view a list of recent searches for quick recall.
Google Maps users can click anywhere on a map and get details and information about a place or business.
Upon locating a business, store or retail outlet with Google Maps, users have visibility on opening-times, contact information and customer reviews where applicable.
Users can view places on the map virtually with Google Street View, or in 3D with Earth view.
FAQs for Google Maps
Below are some frequently asked questions for Google Maps.
Q. What type of pricing plans does Google Maps offer?
Google Maps has the following pricing plans:
Pricing model: Free
Q. Who are the typical users of Google Maps?
Google Maps has the following typical customers:
Freelancers, Large Enterprises, Mid Size Business, Non Profit, Public Administrations, Small Business
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