Google celebrated the 20th anniversary of Google Maps today, a service that has revolutionized exploration and navigation for over 2 billion monthly users.
Two decades ago, co-founder Larry Page conceived an idea that would transform global navigation.
Larry filmed various streets with a video camera and asked someone, “What can you do with this?” said Maria Biggs, technical program manager at Google Street View, a key feature of Google Maps.
With over 2 billion monthly users, Google Maps is the leading navigation app. As it approaches its 20th anniversary in February, Google is enhancing its services with new cameras and generative artificial intelligence.
These advanced cameras enable Google to update maps in numerous countries and to map three new ones: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Namibia, and Liechtenstein. Street View cameras play a vital role in data collection, supplemented by satellite and aerial imagery, as well as information from over 1,000 third-party sources, including local governments and users. This extensive data network allows Google to provide maps for more than 250 countries and territories.
In a recent statement, Google highlighted that Maps has become an indispensable tool, helping users navigate confidently on their journeys.
“Over the past two decades, it has served over 2 billion monthly users, offering comprehensive information and a vibrant community for knowledge sharing,” the company noted.
Google also introduced several new features, including personalized recommendations powered by Gemini. “Ask Maps for curated ideas on where to go,” the company stated, mentioning that the app’s “Directory” tab assists travelers in navigating airports and that augmented reality features provide real-time insights.
Additionally, the app helps users locate the nearest affordable petrol stations.
Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications and Public Affairs Manager for Google West Africa, remarked that “Google Maps has evolved from a basic mapping tool to a dynamic platform for exploration, navigation, and discovery.”
In Nigeria, Google Maps has enabled users to find new places and navigate with confidence. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Google released a list of the most reviewed locations in the country.
These top-rated spots include a variety of categories such as restaurants, cafes, attractions, parks, and museums. Notable restaurants include Mega Chicken, Farmcity Lekki Lounge, and Hard Rock Cafe, while cafes like Flowershop Cafe and Oliver’s Café topped their category.
Among the most reviewed attractions are Oniru Private Beach and Fela’s Shrine in Ikeja, alongside popular parks and museums such as City Park in Abuja and the National Museum in Benin City.
Google Maps Marks 20th Anniversary: Uncovering Nigeria’s Most Loved Spots
