This simple setting changed how I used Google Maps forever – and it could bring big benefits to you too

I used to use Google Maps in a fairly unthinking way: put in my destination, tweak my starting location if needed, then look up the directions. Job done – or so I thought.

But then I learned that there’s a far more effective way to use the popular mapping app, and it has helped me avoid bad traffic, explore my hometown in ways I hadn’t thought of before, and generally have a better, less stressful time navigating around any given place. Best of all, it takes just a tap or two to set up and use.

That feature is the ‘map details’ pane, and it contains a range of filters and views that improve the level of detail when you’re flicking around Google Maps. Now, I never use the app on my phone without enabling this feature. Here’s how you can put it to good use on your own device.

Improving your experience

Let’s start with a simple question: what does the map details option actually do? Well, quite a lot actually. It comprises several layers and overlays that convey extra information on top of the regular map view. These overlays work with the default, satellite and terrain map types, so you should be able to feel their benefits no matter which view you use.

My favorite map details overlay displays live traffic information on your screen. Enable it and Google Maps will highlight major roads in one of several colors, each denoting a level of traffic – green is clear and deep red is heavily congested, for example. This is extremely helpful when you’re planning a route and want to see which option will help you best avoid traffic-related setbacks. After all, no one likes tailbacks.

There are other handy map details views that come with Google Maps. If your preference is for public transport, for example, there’s an overlay that highlights train stations and bike hire locations. In cities where underground services operate, metro lines are also clearly shown, each one color-coded to make them easier to follow.

If you’re looking for cycling routes, Google Maps has an overlay for that too. Activate it and you’ll swiftly see the best places to take your bike out for a spin.

Not all map details views are designed for routing – some, like the Street View or 3D filters, show you where you can get an enhanced visual experience when using the app, whether that’s through seeing street-level details or 3D renderings of buildings and landmarks.

And then there are the filters that are geared towards your health and wellbeing. Google Maps includes overlays for both air quality and wildfires, both of which can help you stay safe and avoid potentially dangerous areas.

All in all, there’s a wide range of views that help take Google Maps beyond the standard routing options. Whether you walk, drive, cycle or hitch a ride on public transport, you should find some useful options that improve your experience.

How to use map details in Google Maps

Getting started with map details in Google Maps is simple. First, open the app, then tap the layers button in the top-right corner. Under the Map details heading, tap one of the options. This should activate the overlay on your map.

You can do this whether or not a route is currently active in the app. Map details views also work with all three map types, including default, satellite and terrain, as previously mentioned. Note that you can only have one map details filter active at a time, though.

Considering that it’s hidden behind the layers button – which itself is small and can be easily missed – it wouldn’t surprise me to learn that many Google Maps users aren’t even aware of the map details feature. It’s not exactly something that the app makes a big fuss over, and Google Maps is a competent enough app that you can get by without it.

But once you do know it’s there, it’s likely a feature that you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. I’ve gotten so much good use out of it, and it’s definitely brought an outsized impact to me considering how simple it seems.

Whether you want to check the traffic in advance, need to know the best cycle paths in your area, or are concerned about wildfires and air pollution, Google Maps’ map details feature is a great way to stay informed. Get to know it and it could change the way you travel for the better.

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