Google Maps has kept adding a bunch of new features over the past few months meant to improve the way users discover places and destinations on the platform. In September, the mapping app gained a capability allowing users to add a place to a short list by long-pressing on that destination and share it with friends on any messaging platform. Last month, the service introduced a “Follow” button for its Android version to let users follow places directly from the app.
Today, the search giant has confirmed to TechCrunch that Google Maps now includes support for hashtags in reviews for places and businesses. With the new feature, users will be able to add up to five hashtags that best describe a single place they have visited. This is especially helpful to those looking for restaurants that suit their taste or lifestyle, for example. People looking for family-friendly destinations may also find it useful as they can easily search for places labeled with #familyfriendly.
The feature was initially unveiled to members of Google's Local Guides program. The search giant has since informed the guides that they can add hashtags to their old reviews in addition to their new ones.
Keep in mind, though, that the hashtags need to be more specific than the ones typically used in other social apps such as Instagram. That means tags like #foodie or #sunset should be avoided as much as possible since they are too broad and won't be practically useful in finding places suitable to the specific needs of users. The feature has been added over a week ago, and it's not immediately clear when it will roll out to Google Maps' iOS and web versions.
Source: TechCrunch
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