Started as C++ program by Danish brothers at Where 2 Technologies. Acquired by Google in October 2004. Launched as web application in February 2005. Uses JavaScript, XML, and Ajax for front-end implementation
Maps over 220 countries with hundreds of millions of businesses. Provides real-time GPS navigation, traffic, and transit information. Offers automatic rerouting based on live traffic and road conditions. Includes Live View with arrows and directions on the map
Location History saves details of all visited places and routes. Feature works on any device with Google account and enabled Location History. Data remains stored even when feature is turned off
Open Google Maps and click three horizontal lines in top left corner. Select "Your Places" and then "Maps" to create new map. Add directions by entering start and end points. Add additional stops using plus button. Choose transportation mode from toolbar (driving, transit, walking, cycling)
Enable Developer Tools in Chrome to save user-uploaded photos. Click "Frames" and "Image" arrows, then right-click and select "Save as". Works on all web browsers including Chrome, Firefox, and Safari. Cannot download photos from mobile app
Open Google Maps app and enable Location Services if needed. Tap blue dot to view current location and direction. Double-tap or pinch to zoom in. Drag map to reposition and tap compass to center. Tap red pushpin to view location information panel