Google Maps is a navigation app for finding places, planning routes and exploring the surrounding area. It supports driving, public transport, cycling and walking directions while providing information about businesses, landmarks and useful services nearby.

Google Maps comes pre-installed on many Android devices. To determine a user’s position, it can use GPS, mobile networks, Wi-Fi and other available signals.

Navigation and directions

Users can enter a destination, select a mode of transport and compare available routes. During a drive, the app displays upcoming manoeuvres, estimates the arrival time and provides spoken directions.

Key features include:

• turn-by-turn GPS navigation;

• driving, walking, cycling and public transport routes;

• traffic, collision and road-closure information;

• automatic rerouting;

• searches for places along a journey;

• routes with multiple stops;

• options to avoid tolls, motorways or ferries;

• live bus and train information where available;

• searches for EV charging stations, fuel stations and parking.

Transport modes and live information are not available in every city or country.

Finding places and planning trips

Google Maps can locate restaurants, shops, hotels, pharmacies, hospitals, cash machines, attractions and other destinations. A place page may include opening hours, contact details, a website, photos, reviews, ratings and information about busy periods.

Users can also:

• save places to personal lists;

• create and share collections;

• explore streets with Street View;

• preview supported places and routes with Immersive View;

• use Lens in Maps for camera-based walking guidance;

• publish photos, ratings and reviews;

• share a route or real-time location.

Street View, Immersive View, Lens in Maps and other advanced features are not supported in every region or on every device.

Offline maps

A selected area can be downloaded to a phone in advance. If the internet connection becomes unavailable or unreliable, driving navigation can continue as long as the entire route is inside the saved area.

Live traffic, alternative routes and directions for public transport, cycling and walking are unavailable offline. Map downloads may also be restricted in certain countries or regions.

Privacy and safety

Google Maps may use precise location, search activity and information about interactions with the app. Personalisation, history and location access can be managed through the Google Account settings and Android permissions.

Real-time location sharing must be enabled by the user. Before starting it, users should check the recipient and selected sharing duration.

Routes can contain errors or may not reflect temporary changes. Road signs, current conditions and local traffic laws should always take priority over app instructions.

How to download and install Google Maps

To download Google Maps for Android, tap the download button on this page. Google Play will open, where you can select “Install” or “Update”.

After opening the app, allow location access. Signing in to a Google Account is not required for basic searches and navigation, but it is needed to synchronise saved places, lists and other personalised features.