Having Google Maps as your go-to navigation app on your iPhone can make getting around a lot easier. Whether you’re driving, walking, or taking public transit, Google Maps offers accurate directions and real-time traffic updates. But how do you make Google Maps the default app on your iPhone? It’s actually quite simple and I’m here to guide you through the process.
Step by Step Tutorial: Making Google Maps Default on iPhone
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re aiming to achieve. By the end of this tutorial, any address links you tap on will automatically open in Google Maps instead of Apple Maps. This can save you the hassle of copying and pasting addresses from one app to another.
Step 1: Install Google Maps
Make sure you have the Google Maps app installed on your iPhone.
If you haven’t already, go to the App Store, search for Google Maps, and hit the download button. Once installed, open the app and sign in with your Google account if you wish to sync your location history and preferences.
Step 2: Open a Location in Google Maps
Find a location in your browser or another app, and tap on it to open the address.
When you tap on an address link, your iPhone will typically open it in Apple Maps. For this step, you’ll need to manually open the location in Google Maps by copying the address and pasting it into the Google Maps search bar.
Step 3: Share the Location
Once the location is open in Google Maps, tap on the ‘Share’ button.
The share button looks like a square with an arrow pointing upward. Tapping on this will bring up the iOS share sheet with various options to share the location.
Step 4: Choose ‘Make Default’
Scroll to the right on the bottom row of icons in the share sheet until you see ‘More,’ then tap it and select ‘Make Default’.
This step might be a bit tricky because the ‘Make Default’ option is not always visible. You may need to edit the actions in the share sheet by tapping ‘Edit Actions…’ and adding ‘Make Default’ to your favorites.
Step 5: Confirm Your Choice
A pop-up will appear asking if you want to make Google Maps your default app for directions. Tap ‘Yes’ to confirm.
By confirming, you’re telling your iPhone that you prefer using Google Maps over Apple Maps. This setting will apply to any future address links you tap on.
After completing these steps, whenever you tap on an address link, it will automatically open in Google Maps. No more copying and pasting or switching between apps!
Tips for Making Google Maps Default on iPhone
- Ensure that you have the latest version of iOS installed, as older versions may not support changing default apps.
- If you use Siri to get directions, you can specify "in Google Maps" at the end of your command to ensure it uses the correct app.
- You can still use Apple Maps if needed; changing the default doesn’t delete or disable the Apple Maps app.
- Remember that changing the default maps app only applies to address links; if an app has built-in mapping, it may still use Apple Maps.
- If you change your mind, you can always switch back to Apple Maps by following similar steps in the Apple Maps app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set Google Maps as the default for Siri directions?
No, Siri will still use Apple Maps for directions by default. However, you can specify "in Google Maps" at the end of your request to Siri.
Will making Google Maps default affect CarPlay?
CarPlay will still default to Apple Maps for navigation, but you can manually open Google Maps on your CarPlay screen.
What if I don’t see the ‘Make Default’ option?
Make sure you’ve scrolled all the way to the right on the bottom row of icons and tapped ‘More.’ If it’s still not there, you may need to edit your actions to include it.
Can I make Google Maps default for calendar events?
No, calendar events will still use Apple Maps if they include an address. You’ll need to manually open the event address in Google Maps.
What happens if I delete Google Maps after making it the default?
If you delete Google Maps, your iPhone will revert to using Apple Maps for address links.
Summary
- Install Google Maps from the App Store.
- Open a location and share it from another app.
- Tap the ‘Share’ button in Google Maps.
- Choose ‘Make Default’ from the share sheet.
- Confirm the change when prompted.
Conclusion
So there you have it, a simple and straightforward way to make Google Maps your default navigation app on your iPhone. No more frustrations with being automatically redirected to Apple Maps when tapping on an address. By following the steps outlined above, you can enjoy the convenience and features of Google Maps for all your navigation needs. Whether you’re a regular commuter, a frequent traveler, or just someone who likes to explore new places, having Google Maps as your go-to app can make a significant difference in how you navigate the world around you. So why wait? Make the switch today and experience the benefits of Google Maps as your default navigation app on your iPhone.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.