The Google Maps augmented reality feature offers a navigation experience that is bound to give you main-character energy. Imagine yourself wandering through the bustling streets of New York, and instead of squinting at your screen like a confused tourist, you’re getting directions overlaid as you point your mobile camera at your surroundings. Here’s everything you need to know about Live View.
To enable this wizardry, follow these quick steps: Pick a destination, tap on Directions, switch over to Walking mode from the top, and then tap Live View at the bottom. Then you can move your camera around and Maps will pinpoint where you are. A street sign, a big store, an important landmark; anything relevant you see around you will work. Once it figures out where you are, you’ll see big pretty arrows and bold instructions leading you to your destination right through camera view. And not just that, it will also recognize local businesses and lay out all their information for you.
That doesn’t mean you should walk around with your phone up in the air all the time, even when you’re fully aware of your bearings. It’s better if you pocket your phone as soon as you’re done for personal safety and battery conservation. One thing’s for sure, with Live View you shouldn’t be walking into a pole because you’re too busy frantically navigating through your phone like a tech zombie anymore. Google Maps also has a new Immersive View you should check out.
