Google Maps Live View uses augmented reality to help make walking directions more accessible and dynamic on both Android phones and iPhones. Once you know where to find it, Live View is relatively easy to use. But you may not know what features are available or where you’ll get the most out of the Live View experience. Here’s how to use Google Maps Live View.
How to follow directions with Google Maps Live View
1. On your Android phone, iPhone, or iPad, open Google Maps and search for a destination.
2. Tap Directions and Walking view.
3. Next to the blue Start button, find and tap the Live View button.
4. “Enable camera access” on iOS or “Allow Maps to take pictures and record video while using the app” on Android.
5. As prompted, point your phone camera around to locate your surroundings, focusing on buildings, landmarks, and/or street signs.
Once Live View recognizes your position, it will augment your surroundings with arrows to guide you in the right direction. Hold the phone vertically to continue to use Live View, or swap to horizontal to return to 2D map view.
If you don’t want to use the Directions tool, and simply want to check where a nearby restaurant is, select it on the map and then swipe down the informational menu that appears to show a full map view; the Live View button should appear in the bottom right. Tap it and point your phone at your surroundings.
Doing this will enable your phone to show you which direction the landmark is, how far away it is, and if it’s somewhere above ground level. You can then switch to Directions mode if necessary.
