The next time you're on the road, think about how dangerous it is to fiddle with your phone while moving at 40+ MPH. One mistake and you could end up in a serious accident. The risk just isn't worth it.

Fortunately, there's a better way: voice commands!

On Android, while Google Maps is active in navigation mode, you can issue several different "OK Google" voice commands that work at any time, no button presses necessary. These voice commands are:

  • "OK Google, navigate to [location]."
  • "OK Google, what’s my next turn?"
  • "OK Google, when will I get there?"
  • "OK Google, find gas stations."
  • "OK Google, mute."
  • "OK Google, unmute."
  • "OK Google, exit navigation."
  • "OK Google, resume navigation."

For example, if you have the Home location in Google Maps set to your home adress, you can just say "OK Google, navigate to home" and it will instantly route you there. No fumbling, no typing, no inconveniences.

google-navigation-voice-tricks-example

The "find gas stations" command is useful when you're low on gas, but the "what's my next turn" command is the real prize. Tired of missing your next turn because Maps is too slow? Now you can move to the next step manually without even touching your device.

There are a few caveats, though: It only works in the U.S., only if you speak English, only if you're signed into both the Google and Google Maps apps, and "OK Google" must be enabled on your device.

What do you think? Will you be using "OK Google" with Maps now? Or is it not worth the hassle? Tell us in the comments below!

Image Credits: Google Maps in Hand by Twin Design via Shutterstock, Google Maps on Dashboard by Dedi Grigoroiu via Shutterstock