Google Maps for Android now allows hashtags in reviews, but not to be used like on Instagram

Google Maps is known to sneak in minor features every now and then. The latest feature to be quietly rolled out is aimed at helping users visit places that are recommended by other visitors for a particular reason.Now Google Maps has let you review places you have visited for a while now, but now, you can also add hashtags to help others find what they're looking for quicker.Say, for example, you’re reviewing a restaurant that may have limited options on the menu, but has a breathtaking view and is perfect for a date, you can simply add the hashtags #datespot or #greatview.[caption id="attachment_4281543" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Google Maps. Image: Reuters[/caption]This works even better for more specific things like finding a cafe which is pet-friendly or if you want to find places which are suitable for vegetarians.What this means is unlike on Instagram and other apps, the hashtags in reviews need to be specific to be useful. Google states that general hashtags like #love or #food won’t be helpful, which could also be a justification of why the feature is currently limited to local guides only.[caption id="attachment_5624611" align="alignnone" width="911"] Google Maps hashtag feature. Image: Android Police[/caption]To use the new feature, one just needs to tap the blue link when you see one listed in a review to be taken to a list of the other places nearby with the same hashtag.As per a report by TechCrunch, Google added this feature a week back on Android and has stated that the feature is currently limited to members of Google Maps' Local Guides program.Users can also add only up to a maximum of five hashtags to reviews and can also go back to older reviews and add them if they deem necessary.This might be a tiny feature to add, but could be quite helpful for certain people and even businesses. The feature will likely be rolled out for iOS and web users in the future, but Google is yet to specify when.