New Google Maps Bar Update For Your iPhone Is The Ultimate First Date Hack

Picture the scene.

You're on a first date and it's going well. The conversation is flowing just as well as the wine so, to prove to your date you're spontaneous and fun, you suggest moving on to another bar.

And that's where things go wrong. The place is so packed you can't even move, it's too loud for conversation and the magic of the date is ruined. He or she doesn't text you back the next day.

Well, my lovelorn friend, worry no longer — Google Maps has you covered.

A new update on Google's phone app gives you live updates that let you know exactly how busy a business is when you want to go there.

For instance, I fancy a late lunch, so let's see how busy the closest Shake Shack in New York City is, because I like burgers and I'll start eating healthy tomorrow, mom.

See that pink bar? That's letting me know that, right now, the Shack in Madison Square Park is way less busy than normal — you can even compare it to normal by checking out the faint blue outline above it.

 It's burger time, and with minimal waiting!

There's no doubt about it, the update (version 4.27.0 on iOS and 9.44.3 on Android) is a game changer.

Can't decide which of your two favorite bars to hit up, or where you're going to pick up food tonight? The pink bar is your friend.

Thinking about whether you should go shopping at Whole Foods now or a bit later?

The app tells me, slightly intimidatingly, that this Thursday, lunchtime is “as busy as it gets,” though I'm still going to avoid heading there over the weekend, too.

It's easy to use as well. To find live updates, type in and select your desired location, then tap on the name of the place at the bottom of the screen and scroll down to the bottom.

And all you need to do is download the app for free, or update it if you already have it.

Now, back to that first date.

When your love interest heads to the bathroom, quickly find out which of your favorite nearby spots is quiet, and proceed to look like an absolute baller when you avoid the crowds.

You're welcome.

Citations: Google Maps now shows you how crowded a restaurant is in real time (Mashable)