If you missed Google Maps when using the CarPlay Dashboard mode in your car’s infotainment system, then you are going to like the latest update to the Google Maps app for iOS. Google has updated to the Google Maps iPhone app to make it compatible with iOS 13 or later’s CarPlay Dashboard mode.
The new feature will make it possible for CarPlay users to use Google Maps side by side with music controls and other widgets. Adding Dashboard mode support to Google Maps nearly a year after iOS 13’s release isn’t Google’s fault.
Apple had kept the feature limited to Apple Maps at launch, however it later allowed third-party developers such as Google to add support for the feature in their navigation apps with the release of iOS 13.4 back in March 2020.
With the new implementation Google Maps users will be able to launch the Google Maps app in Apple CarPlay just like they could with Apple Maps. They will be able to see Google Maps directions in a split-screen view, with Google Maps on one side while Music Controls, Calendar and other information on the other side.
New changes to Google Maps for watchOS
Google is also bringing some changes to the Google Maps watchOS app, which will be available in the coming weeks. Now Google Maps will be able to show step by step directions to previously saved locations right from the Watch. This will work for all modes of travel including driving, walking, biking and even public transit.
You can download the Google Maps for iOS here.
Update: Google Maps has received a new update in the App Store. All of the Google Maps for watchOS features mentioned above are now available.
This post was originally published on Aug 10, 2020.
