Google Maps adds know before you go, trending in explore tab and more

Google is rolling out new Google Maps features that will show searchers more information about nearby businesses and events. Plus, Google is allowing reviewers to use nicknames instead of their real names when leaving a review.

Know before you go. Google is rolling out the “know before you go” feature within Google Maps. This is a feature we saw being tested before, both in Search and in Maps, but now it is officially rolling out in Google Maps.

When you search for places in Google Maps, Google will show you a new section with “know before you go” tips. Google will show you information like parking tips, secret menu items, the best way to book a reservation, and details about the entrance.

Google gets this information through user reviews and other information it finds online, like the best way to book a reservation, what the secret menu items are, parking tips and more.

Google calls these “insider tips” and they are rolling out now in the U.S. on Android and iOS.

Here is what it looks like:

Trending nearby in Explore tab. Google added to the explore tab trending and popular restaurants, activities and sights near you. You can swipe up on the explore tab, while on the maps interface, to see these results.

Google said these trends are sourced from Viator, Lonely Planet, and OpenTable, in addition to local influencers like Sisterssnacking.

This is rolling out this month globally on Android and iOS.

Here is what it looks like:

Nicknames for reviewers. Google is also letting reviewers use nicknames, instead of their real names. Google wrote, “If you prefer not to use your real name, now you can choose a nickname and profile.”

Won’t this lead to more spammy reviewers? Google says no. Google linked to this blog post that talks about its review spam capabilities. Google said it will “monitor for suspicious and fake reviews 24/7, since no matter what nickname you use publicly, reviews are still associated with your Google Account behind the scenes.

This feature is rolling out this month globally on Android, iOS and desktop.

Here is how it works: