Google Maps adds two big upgrades to help you during coronavirus outbreak
Google Maps now makes it easy to order food directly from within the app
Typically we use Google Maps when we’re deciding where to go, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, many of us are deciding to practice social distancing or to self isolate. Google is adapting with the times by adding helpful new features to Google Maps.
These features are especially useful now that many of us are deciding to venture outside of our homes less. And when we do, we'll want to make sure that the businesses that we visit will have the items that we want.
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The first useful feature is the ability to order food directly from the Google Maps app. As reported by BGR, if you find a participating restaurant you’ll see a Order Online button for that business. You’ll then tap delivery and choose a delivery service.
You won’t have to leave the app to pay. Everything happens within Google Maps itself. If you want to try it, you can visit this link to order food directly, or you can also use Google Search or even Google Assistant to place orders.
In addition, Google Maps has set up a help page to aid businesses affected by COVID-19, which can help them provide customers with updated info. For example, you can change your hours of operation if you’re closing early.
Business can also share information about how their operations are affected by the outbreak and what precautions it is taking. Additionally, business can share if they’re providing extra services to the community or whether they are experiencing delays.
Google says that businesses can even create posts to share more detailed and timely updates, such as info on what products and services they still have available.
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Mark Spoonauer is the global editor in chief of Tom's Guide and has covered technology for over 20 years. In addition to overseeing the direction of Tom's Guide, Mark specializes in covering all things mobile, having reviewed dozens of smartphones and other gadgets. He has spoken at key industry events and appears regularly on TV to discuss the latest trends, including Cheddar, Fox Business and other outlets. Mark was previously editor in chief of Laptop Mag, and his work has appeared in Wired, Popular Science and Inc. Follow him on Twitter at @mspoonauer.