Many users like Google Maps, especially because it works well with other Google products. However, iPhone users don’t get the app by default and are initially stuck with Apple Maps. While you can get Google Maps, it’s not supposed to be possible to set it as the default.
However, that does not mean that there are no alternative solutions or methods. Read on to find out how to use Google Maps as the “default” option.
Why can’t I make Google Maps the default map app on iPhone?
You may be intrigued to know why this is the case, and the short answer is that Apple has made iOS a closed software ecosystem. In other words, it is always recommended to use Apple products instead of third-party alternatives if you can avoid it.
While iOS 14 allowed users to swap default browsers, email clients, and music apps, the maps service is not affected. However, these changes are the key to making Google Maps the so-called default maps app on your iPhone.
If you want to set Google Maps as your default maps app, the only option is to jailbreak your iPhone. However, doing so is against Apple’s Terms of Service and voids any existing warranty. Proceed with the jailbreak process only if you are aware of the risks.
To continue with any of the methods below, your iPhone must be running iOS 14 or later. Older versions will not allow you to set new default apps.
Make Google Maps the default map app on an iPhone for Chrome and Gmail
To make Google Maps the default, you will need to download and install Google Chrome and Gmail. The reason is that both apps will work with each other and will even allow you to set Google Maps as your default map app. With the right settings, you can avoid using Apple Maps as much as possible.
Switch from email to Gmail
Apple’s Mail app is pretty basic and the Gmail app lets you sign in to your Google account for better connectivity. Plus, when you tap directions in Gmail, after a few adjustments, you’ll be taken to Google Maps instead of having to open Apple Maps.
- Go to iPhone Settings application.
- Look for the Gmail application and select it.
- Tap on Default mail app.
- Choose Gmail from the list of options.
Now that Gmail is the default mail app on your iPhone, it’s time to change some settings within the app.
- Launch Gmail for iOS.
- Tap on the three horizontal lines menu icon in the top left-hand corner.
- Scroll down and find Settings.
- Select Default apps.
- Low Browse from your locationselect google maps.
- Do the same for Navigate between locations.
Every time you tap an address within an email using the Gmail app, you can choose between Google Maps or Apple Maps.
Problems with iOS 14 and changing default applications
If you’re still using iOS 14 and haven’t updated to later patches, you may run into several issues after performing the steps above. Some bugs reset your default apps to Apple’s factory settings after the new preferred app receives updates. This would mean that after updating Chrome, you would have to repeat the above instructions every time.
While Apple has implemented fixes, users who have not switched to newer versions of iOS may experience errors. That’s why it’s usually a good idea to update to the latest version of iOS. The only exception is if the most recent patch has serious bugs and flaws.
Jailbreak your iPhone
If you don’t mind jailbreaking your phone, this is the best way to set Google Maps as your default maps app. Since you’re forcing your iPhone to accept Google Maps as the truly preferred app, you’ll never have to deal with choosing between options again. Before jailbreaking, we highly recommend backing up your important data. That way, you can save it for later.
While jailbreaking an iPhone may seem like a challenge, there are several tutorials available on YouTube and how-to websites. Find instructions by iOS version and iPhone model for best results. The app you should install after jailbreaking your iPhone is Map openerwhich is completely free to use.
Future updates
Apple Maps remains the only default maps app on iPhones, even in iOS 16. It’s up to Apple whether or not the company will relent and allow users to change their default option without jailbreaking.
Google Maps is also superior to Apple Maps in many ways, particularly in these areas:
- street view
- Public transport
- Discovering new places
- Real time navigation
Additional FAQs
Can I use Google Maps on Apple CarPlay?
If you can do it. Before connecting it to your vehicle, you will first need to have Google Maps on your iPhone. After that, you should be able to launch Google Maps on your CarPlay screen and navigate to a location.
Are Apple Maps or Google Maps more accurate?
Google Maps has been providing accurate directions for many years and is available almost everywhere in the world. It’s also more accurate than Apple Maps at interpreting how traffic will affect your travel time. In general, Google Maps is superior in these aspects.
Battle of the apps
Unfortunately, until Apple decides to allow users to replace Apple Maps entirely with Google Maps, we will be stuck with the methods described above. It is not the most convenient and has even caused errors, especially in iOS 16. Even if the errors have been fixed, the solutions are not the best.
