Are you curious about when the Google Maps car might be cruising through your neighborhood to capture those street view images? Well, you’re in luck because there are a few ways to find out. All it takes is a little bit of internet sleuthing, and you can be prepared to wave at the camera or hide inside until it passes.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Know When Google Maps Car is Coming
Before diving into the steps, it’s useful to understand that Google Maps doesn’t have a publicly available schedule for when their cars will be in specific areas. However, there are ways to make educated guesses and be on the lookout.
Step 1: Check for Google Maps Car Sighting Reports
Look online for recent sightings of the Google Maps car in your area.
People often post on social media or local forums when they see the Google Maps car. These reports can give you an idea of the car’s current location and possible route.
Step 2: Review Google’s Published Schedules
Visit Google’s official Street View website to see if they have published any upcoming schedules.
While Google doesn’t always release detailed schedules, they sometimes announce when they plan to cover larger areas or special events.
Step 3: Join Local Online Groups or Forums
Become a member of local groups or forums where people might share information about the Google Maps car sightings.
These communities are often the first to know and share when the Google Maps car is spotted in the area.
Step 4: Use Social Media
Follow Google Maps on social media and use hashtags to search for recent posts about the car.
Google Maps may post updates about their activities, and other users often use hashtags like #GoogleMapsCar to share sightings.
Step 5: Set Up Google Alerts
Set up Google Alerts for terms like "Google Maps car" and your location to receive email updates.
Google Alerts will notify you when new content that matches your search terms is published online, which could include announcements or sightings of the Google Maps car.
After completing these steps, you should have a better idea of when the Google Maps car may be in your area. Keep in mind, there’s no guarantee that you’ll get an exact date and time, but these methods can increase your chances of being in the know.
Tips on How to Know When Google Maps Car is Coming
- Keep an eye out for local news articles, as they sometimes report on Google Maps car schedules.
- Talk to your neighbors; word of mouth can be a fast way to find out if the car has been spotted nearby.
- Check for patterns in sightings reports, as the Google Maps car often follows a logical route.
- Remember that the Google Maps car is more likely to visit during good weather, so keep this in mind when looking for it.
- Be aware that even if you find out the car is coming, it might be delayed or rerouted due to unforeseen circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request the Google Maps car to come to my area?
No, Google doesn’t accept requests for specific locations to be covered by their Street View cars.
Will Google announce in advance before the car comes to my area?
It’s rare for Google to announce specific dates and times, but they might give a general timeframe for larger projects.
Is there a way to track the Google Maps car in real-time?
There is no official way to track the Google Maps car in real-time provided by Google.
What should I do if I spot the Google Maps car?
If you’d like to be captured on Street View, you can wave to the camera. If you prefer not to be photographed, it’s best to avoid the area until the car passes.
Can I find out when the car will return to update the images?
Google doesn’t publicly share a schedule for when they will revisit areas to update Street View images.
Summary
- Check for Google Maps Car sighting reports.
- Review Google’s published schedules.
- Join local online groups or forums.
- Use social media to look for updates.
- Set up Google Alerts for relevant terms.
Conclusion
So there you have it! While Google Maps keeps their car schedules under wraps, you’re not entirely in the dark. By staying vigilant and using the tips provided, you’ll increase your chances of knowing when the iconic car with the 360-degree camera will be rolling down your street. Whether you want to be captured waving to the camera or you’d rather maintain your privacy, it’s always good to be informed. Remember to be patient and considerate of others’ privacy as well. With a bit of luck and some good timing, you might just spot the Google Maps car in your neighborhood. Keep your eyes peeled, and happy mapping!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.