You've probably followed a route with Google Maps more than once, and when you entered a tunnel, the GPS signal disappeared, leaving you without directions just when you needed them most. This problem, which affects both drivers and pedestrians in certain infrastructures, can be solved thanks to a new technology implemented in the application.
The key is in the Bluetooth beacons, small devices installed in many tunnels that allow mobile phones to calculate their location without the need for a satellite connection. Below, we explain how to activate this option and what advantages it offers.
How tunnel navigation works with Google Maps
When you enter a tunnel, your phone's GPS signal may disappear completely or become inaccurate. Until now, Google Maps tried to estimate your location based on your previous speed and direction, but this method isn't always accurate, especially in long tunnels with multiple exits.
To solve this problem, Google has incorporated the Bluetooth beacon support, a feature that already existed in Waze. These beacons emit signals that mobile phones can detect, allowing the application to determine the user's position with great precision. Thus, even without a GPS signal, the navigator continues to function correctly inside tunnels.
What are Bluetooth beacons and how do they help navigation?
The Bluetooth beacons o Bluetooth Beacons They are low-energy devices that emit periodic signals. When they are detected by a mobile phone with the option activated, it can triangulate its position based on proximity to different beacons.
Some key aspects of these beacons are:
- They do not depend on the GPS connection: They work with Bluetooth, ideal for areas without satellite coverage.
- Installation in tunnels: They are strategically placed inside the tunnels to cover the entire infrastructure.
- They are compatible with Google Maps: Once the option is activated, the mobile connects to them to improve navigation accuracy.
How to activate the Bluetooth beacon feature in Google Maps
If you want to take advantage of this technology and improve navigation in tunnels, you just need to activate an option in the Google Maps settings. Follow these steps:
- Open the Google Maps app.
- Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
- Accede to Settings and select Navigation settings.
- Scroll until you find the option Bluetooth tunnel beacons.
- Turn it on and allow Google Maps to detect nearby Bluetooth devices.
Once activated, if you pass through a tunnel that has these beacons installed, Google Maps will be able to update your position in real time without the need for GPS.
Alternatives if you don't have beacons in the tunnels
Not all tunnels have this technology yet. If you live in an area where there are no Bluetooth beacons, you can use other strategies to keep your navigation safe:
- Download offline maps: Before you start your route, download a map of the area so you can continue navigating offline. This is especially useful if you don't have signal in tunnels or remote areas, and you can read more about this feature at .
- Using complementary applications: Other apps like Waze also incorporate this technology and can serve as a backup.
- Plan routes in advance: If you know you will be going through long tunnels, familiarize yourself with the route before starting the journey.
Advantages of using Bluetooth beacons in Google Maps
Enabling this feature and having tunnels equipped with Bluetooth beacons brings multiple benefits:
- Continuous navigation: Google Maps will continue to guide you even if there is no GPS coverage.
- Greater precision: Loss of direction is avoided in tunnels with multiple exits.
- Less stress when driving: You will no longer have to worry about losing your location in underground infrastructure.
Google Maps has taken a big step forward in tunnel navigation by adding support for Bluetooth beacons. It is now possible to maintain real-time location without the need for GPS coverage, which is a great advantage for drivers and travelers. Don't forget to activate this option on your mobile to ensure a smoother and safer navigation experience in any circumstance. Share the information so that other users learn how to configure this option.