Get around with Google Maps

Never get lost again with the help of Google’s brilliant free app

Want a comprehensive mapping tool that doubles as a route planner and makes it easy to access local amenities and places of interest? Google Maps is perfect for the job. It trumps Apple Maps in a number of ways: first, there’s comprehensive support for public transport, so you don’t need to be a car driver or living in Los Angeles to get the most from it. Just tap a station or stop for a list of departure times and stops for your selected service.

Next there’s Street View: tap the photo beneath an address and you’ll be taken to an interactive 360° view. Shift position using the arrow controls, or drag your finger to look around. It’s a great way to visualize key landmarks, such as how a junction is laid out or what your target bus stop looks like.

Google Maps also supports voice commands: when searching, tap the mic button and speak your search terms, such as “Directions to [place].” Following a carefully plotted route only to find you’re low on gas or need a rest? You can use Google Map’s stop-off feature to add in a diversion (Apple Maps is getting a very similar feature in iOS 10 in the fall).

You can download maps for offline use too – just tap the three dots button from the main screen and choose “Download offline area” before choosing what area to save. Manage your settings by tapping the three lines at the left of the search bar, which is where you can set home and work locations as well as link to your Google account.

Google Maps is constantly evolving, which brings us to our last tip: the app recently introduced a Travel Times widget, accessible via Notifications. This provides a way to quickly estimate travel times between your current location and both home and work.