Google Maps

Maps, routes, and places

Google Maps combines digital maps, route planning, local search, and navigation in one Android app. It suits people who need directions for driving, walking, cycling, or public transport, as well as anyone looking for nearby shops, restaurants, services, and points of interest.

Useful for everyday journeys

Search for a destination, compare available travel options, and follow turn-by-turn guidance while you move. Driving routes can respond to traffic and reported incidents, while transit information helps users plan trips involving buses and trains. Street View and other imagery can also help confirm what a destination looks like before you arrive, including entrances and nearby surroundings.

More than a navigation tool

The app is also built around local discovery. Business listings can include opening details, reviews, photos, menus, and indications of how busy a place may be. Offline map areas provide a fallback for locations with weak or unavailable mobile data. For pedestrians, camera-based guidance can make complicated urban routes easier to follow by placing directional information over the surrounding view.

Scale and trade-offs

With more than 10 billion installs, Google Maps is one of the most widely used travel and local apps available. It is developed by Google LLC and carries a 3.17 rating from more than 19 million reviews. That large review volume reflects a broad range of experiences rather than a simple consensus: map coverage and local information vary by region, and active navigation can use considerable battery, especially when the camera or GPS remains in use for long periods.