Windows Maps

Windows Maps is a comprehensive mapping application that provides Windows 10 and Windows 11 users with a wide range of features and functionalities to explore and navigate real-world locations, with full support for both road network and aerial photography maps of the entire world.

This app is offered as a free download from its official Microsoft Store page to enable users to easily reinstall it in the event of this app becoming unresponsive due to the corruption of the local storage, or if the user has simply previously uninstalled the app.

Main Features

Windows Maps app provides detailed driving, walking, and public transit directions to any location utilizing road maps and satellite view modes, with full support for free map view manipulation and rendering of buildings and terrain features in 3D. Users can use this app not only to orient themselves in any environment they find themselves in but also to get accurate directions to any point on Earth.

The app features several advanced features for easier navigation, including traffic notifications, business listings (with ratings, reviews, and working hours), advanced search, and full integration with Microsoft's digital assistant Cortana. This way, Windows PC users can easily search for map directions hands-free, using only natural language voice commands.

Microsoft Maps app supports a tabbed search interface that can keep in memory previous searches that the user entered the app, enabling streamlined management of multiple navigation searches. In supported areas, the Traffic listing feature can showcase not only the reduced speed of cars but also visually showcase places where road incidents happened.

The maps can also list publicly available live stream cameras, 360 panoramas, streetside views, and detailed 3D showcases of over 200 cities and landmarks. When used on the go, the app can also automatically remember the parking location of the user’s car, enabling easier navigation on previously not visited locations.

PROS

• Comprehensive mapping application with road and aerial photography maps of the entire world.
• Detailed driving, walking, and public transit directions with 3D rendering of buildings and terrain features.
• Advanced features such as traffic notifications, business listings, and integration with Cortana.
• Tabbed search interface for streamlined management of multiple navigation searches.
• Live stream cameras, panoramas, streetside views, and 3D showcases of cities and landmarks.
• Ability to automatically remember parking location for easier navigation.

CONS

• May require reinstallation from Microsoft Store in case of app corruption.
• May have performance issues on lower-end systems.
• Limited customization options for map view manipulation.
• Some features may only be available in certain areas.
• Reliance on Cortana for voice commands may not be preferred by all users.

Overall

Windows Maps desktop app is a versatile mapping tool that provides users with a streamlined way to get driving, cycling, and walking directions, explore locations, and find local businesses with ease.