Google Tracks Crowded Places In Real-Time In Time For The Holidays

The holiday season is almost here, and with that comes those moments when even normally empty places can become suddenly crowded. Normally, users could turn to Google’s handy Popular Times search feature that tells them when particular places are at their busiest so that visits can be scheduled. However, the search engine company just introduced an entirely new service which provides real-time information regarding shops, malls, or any other place.

Using data gathered anonymously from users, the feature provides a rough idea of how many people are in what location, which then draws a picture of just how crowded that space is going to be. Google already does this during popular occasions, The Verge reports, but this newly implemented service comes with a variety of other perks.

Aside from the real-time data on how crowded places are, it also provides users with details on how long those places will be filled with people. Since the holidays are coming, changes pertaining to retail schedules will also be shown.

Users can access these services via the search page of Google or the Maps feature. This will allow users to better manage their time if they are planning on shopping or looking for a good place to eat, according to the company’s blog post.

"Just in time for the Black Friday swarms, we're adding a real-time look at how crowded a place is right now, to help you decide where and when to go," the blog post reads. "Whether you're rushing to pick up a last-minute gift or seeking a lively bar for some festive spirit, check Popular Times for a sneak preview of what to expect when you arrive."

Google is heavily reliant on user information collected over the years to make their predictions and tracking results more accurate over time. While the company is certainly treading the line regarding user privacy violations, it does make way for innovations such as this.