We've all been in the same position - you're driving to a new place and have no idea where to park your car or how busy it's going to be. Instead of the endless circling and potential back-alley parking, though, Google Maps could soon be on hand to get us out of another jam, Digital Spy said.

That's if a recent 9.34 beta of the app is any indication, with text-based alerts informing users of parking shortages at their destination set to be introduced.

This not only allows you to account for traffic, but also how long you could be facing stand-offs with other drivers about who saw that open space first.

While the service probably won't be able to give you specific directions to individual spaces, it will likely give details about an area with a high proportion of parking spots.

The time of day, walking distance to your actual destination and public events taking place nearby will almost definitely be taken into account.

Interestingly, the fresh beta also includes a compass recalibration option which can lock into north-facing, saving you from confusion if you accidentally twist your map around, Digital Spy said.

It's not yet clear whether these features, or any additional map-related fun, will make it to the official update, but it does appear as if parking could be about to get a bit easier, Digital Spy said.