Google is More Than Just a Search Engine: Exploring Its Lesser-Known Features

When you think of Google, you likely think of a search engine, and for good reason – Google handles more than 5 billion searches every day. However, Google is much more than just a search engine. From Google Earth to Google Translate, the company offers a wide range of features that are both fun and useful. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of Google’s lesser-known features that are definitely worth exploring.

Set a Timer

Did you know that you can use Google to set a timer? It’s a handy tool for timing anything from cooking to exercising. To set a timer, simply type “set timer for X minutes” (replace X with the number of minutes you want the timer to run for) into the search bar. A timer will appear on your screen, and an alarm will sound when the time is up. You can also use voice commands if you’re using Google Assistant.

Take a Virtual Flight Through Google Earth

Google Earth lets you explore the world from your computer, and you can take a virtual flight to almost anywhere on the planet. To start your virtual journey, press CTRL + Alt + A on your keyboard. Google Earth will launch, and you can then use your mouse to explore the globe. You can zoom in and out, rotate the Earth, and even switch to Street View to get a ground-level view of different locations.

Learn How to Pronounce Long Numbers

Have you ever come across a long number that you weren’t quite sure how to pronounce? Google can help with that. Just type the number into the search bar and add the word “pronunciation” after it. For example, if you want to know how to pronounce 123456789, type “123456789 pronunciation” into the search bar. Google will then give you an audio clip of how the number should be pronounced.

Hand-Write Characters You Can’t Type to Translate

Google Translate is a useful tool for translating text from one language to another. However, what do you do if you need to translate a character that you can’t type on your keyboard? That’s where Google’s handwriting feature comes in. Just click on the “handwriting” icon in the lower-right corner of the Google Translate box and draw the character you want to translate with your mouse or touchscreen. Google will then display the translated version of the character.

Learn Some Geography Trivia

Do you enjoy learning about the world around you? Try asking Google for some geography trivia! Just type “fun geography facts” into the search bar, and Google will give you a list of interesting facts about different countries and regions.

Ask for Reminders for Things You Search with Google Now

Did you know that Google Now can remind you of things you’ve searched for? For example, if you search for a recipe for lasagna, you can ask Google Now to remind you to buy the ingredients when you’re at the grocery store. To set a reminder, just click on the microphone icon in the Google search bar and say “remind me to buy lasagna ingredients.” Google Now will then create a reminder that will pop up when you’re near a grocery store.

Open a Task Manager Specifically for Chrome

If you’re a heavy Chrome user, you’ll be happy to know that Google has a built-in task manager specifically for the browser. To open it, press Shift + Esc on your keyboard. The task manager will show you how much memory and CPU each tab and extension is using, which can help you identify any performance issues with your browser.

Always Know How Long the Drive Is with Google Now

Google Now can also help you stay on top of your travel plans. If you have a flight or hotel reservation, Google Now will automatically create a card with all the relevant details, including the time and location. You can also ask Google Now how long it will take to drive to a specific destination. Just click on the microphone icon in the Google search bar and say “how long will it take me to drive to X?” Google will then give you an estimate based on current traffic conditions.

Conclusion

While Google is best known for its search engine, the company offers a range of features that are both fun and useful. From setting a timer to exploring the world with Google Earth, there’s something for everyone. By taking advantage of these lesser-known features, you can make the most of your experience with Google and discover new ways to stay organized, informed, and entertained.