5 tricks to see more than just what’s on the map

Google Maps crowdsources more than just traffic data — get real-time information on your destination, including wait times, operating hours and more.

Wherever you’re headed, Google Maps can give you a snapshot of what you’ll find when you get there, from real-time crowd numbers to menus, prices and contact information.Angela Lang/CNET

I open the Google Maps app on my phone practically every day, even though I rarely actually use it to get directions. It may not be obvious at first glance, but Google Maps can do a lot more than just navigate from Point A to Point B. Beneath all those high-resolution satellite images and color-coded traffic patterns hides a powerful search tool, chock-full of crowdsourced real-time data on retail stores, restaurants, professional offices, public parks and practically anywhere else you want to go.

Turn-by-turn directions are so last decade compared with some of Google Maps’ more recent updates, which include vastly improved transit navigation, AI-powered language translation and incognito mode to prevent leaving a paper trail. If you’re already familiar with Google Maps as a navigation tool, next-level powers such as these are only a tap, press or swipe away.

To unleash the hidden power of the Google Maps app on your phone or tablet, take a look at the five ways I use Google Maps almost every day that have nothing to do with getting directions.

See how long the line is everywhere from Walmart to the DMV

Before I walk out the door, whether I’m heading to Walmart, the grocery store, the doctor’s office or to renew my driver’s license, I almost always check Google Maps to see exactly how busy I can expect my destination to be. Here’s how you can look up that information too.

Read more: https://www.cnet.com/how-to/5-clever-google-maps-tricks-to-see-more-than-just-whats-on-the-map/