Google Maps gets impressive updates
Google recently updated its Maps service with a feature that was previously removed: the ability to get directions for multiple destinations. Along with multiple destinations, they also added two new tools: one to find upcoming events and one to manage your reservations. When you log in to your Google account, click on the “Maps” link at the top (like you normally would) and you will see the option to try the new version of Google Maps. Once it is loaded, you can take a tour of all the new features to become more familiar with it.
With the new multiple destinations feature, you can now add multiple points of interest by selecting a starting point, clicking the “+” button, and adding stops to your route. Stops can be added by typing in the search box, or clicking on the map. When needed, there is also the choice to get your route (especially helpful for time and distance), by directions for driving, walking, and biking.
And a dash of reservations
The reservation feature works just like a Google Search. You can find your flight, hotel, or restaurant information all within the Google Maps platform. As long as you are signed in to your Google account, you can simply search for your airport or hotel, and your reservations will be shown. If you are searching for a restaurant, clicking on a result on the map, will give you more information about it, including reviews. Upcoming Events lets you search for interesting venues like performances and sports matches anywhere near you and your planned route.
There is an additional new feature, “view carousel,” which gives you images, photo tours, and Street View shots of your route. Again, for travel planning this is ideal. You can see a hotel, before booking. And you no longer need to leave the site to find an image; you can do it all from Google Maps.
These new features, including the ability to drag and drop destinations so you can reorder your route in any way that best fits your schedule or sightseeing; will allow you to manage your time and money for a trip based on the distance and time. You will definitely want to keep an eye on future Google Maps updates because there is a new market for making reservations and buying tickets. This would mean, sometime in the future, you would be able to book an entire vacation via Google Maps on the web or mobile app and you will want to market your products accordingly (where applicable).
Add this to the list of ways Google is integrating their services into one another, and a win for small businesses.
