Google Maps

Whether it's on your phone, your browser, or in your car, Google Maps gets you where you need to go. And nowadays does so much more than directions.

+ See More

latest

Apple Maps open on an iPhone
I changed these hidden Google Maps settings and my commute feels completely different

Learn how a few little-known features, like in-app media controls, offline maps, and augmented reality, can greatly improve daily navigation.

1
Google Maps icon on phone screen.
I had no idea how much Google Maps was tracking me until I found these settings

Create a boundary and protect your data

3
Waze app downloaded on Android Auto dashboard
I stopped using Google Maps on Android Auto after trying this change

The map swap that made driving simpler.

18
Google Stree View option on a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
I changed these 5 Google Maps settings, and my commute is actually faster now

Making the most out of Google Maps

2
iPhone on a table with a restaurant visible on Apple Maps-2
I replaced Google Maps with this app and didn’t miss it

Biggest comeback of 2026.

Google Stree View option on a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
I had no idea Google Maps showed this much of my home

Google Street View can show more than you want it to.

3
Apple Maps on an Android phone.
Apple Maps just did something I never expected

The Apple Maps service is now accessible on Android devices, but it's not the cross-platform solution you might expect.

OwnTrack app running on Pixel 9a.
I started self-hosting my location history (and I actually love it)

I took back my location history—and I don’t regret it.

Using A Better Routeplanner to plan an EV road trip.
This route planner does what Google Maps can’t — and I love it

This app and web client is an EV owner's secret weapon. It makes planning charging trips easier and eliminates range anxiety, making it invaluable.

5
Gemini dining tips with Maps integration.
5 ways I use Google Maps and Gemini to plan a cheaper, less stressful weekend trip

Use these two travel tools to help with smart decision-making and strategic planning, saving stress and money on your next weekend escape.

TomTom CarPlay in BMW
I'm not going back to Google Maps after I tried this

This app has a cleaner driving experience with less distraction.

39
Holding a phone showing Google Maps offline settings
One Google Maps setting that makes offline navigation dramatically better

Offline navigation finally works like it should once I discovered this hidden setting.

2
Google Maps icon on phone screen.
Google Maps just got a lot more useful for walkers and cyclists

Gemini integration makes it easier to get around and explore new places

Google Maps navigation displayed on a phone mounted on a car dashboard during night driving.
I changed how I use Google Maps on Android with these 3 simple tweaks

Everyday Google Maps features worth turning on.

Google Maps photography tips - Featured-Image
These 11 underrated Google Maps features are perfect for photographers

Use Google Maps like a photographer to plan better shots before you arrive

1
CoMaps during practical testing on the road.
This is the open-source Google Maps alternative I’ve been waiting for

I trialed this open-source navigation app that's taking on Google Maps with a community-driven approach, and the results were interesting.

Gemini Google Maps Photography Featured Image
Pairing Gemini and Google Maps was the best thing that happened to my photography

An experimental approach to find the best spots for your next shot

A composite of various navigation apps that were trialed.
I tested 5 major Google Maps alternatives — this is the one I'm keeping

Stepping away from Google Maps led me to some hidden-gem alternatives and also some dealbreakers. You may find my final choice surprising.

15
NotebookLM-Tour-Guide-Featured-Image
I finally ditched generic travel apps thanks to this tiny NotebookLM trick

This NotebookLM trick turned random articles into a local travel guide

1
The OsMand offline map interface on a cellphone.
This free navigation app works offline better than Google Maps ever did

Discover the hidden gem that outshines Google Maps when it comes to offline navigation.

See More