If Google Maps has started to feel a bit basic for your daily drives, the fix might be hiding in the app itself. Buried in the settings are four Google Maps customizations that can make navigation more personal, more useful, and a lot more fun. Here is what they do and how to switch them on.
Google Maps (Credits: How-To Geek)
1. Google Maps McLaren F1 Car Icon: Drive a Race Car Until November 23
Tired of the same blue arrow? Google has launched a limited-time McLaren F1 car icon to celebrate the United States Grand Prix, available until November 23, 2026. The orange racing car replaces your usual navigation arrow, and it even shows up on your car’s display when you use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.
To try it, tap your profile picture, go to Settings, then Your vehicles, then Driving avatar, and swipe through the options to find the F1 car. If it is not there yet, Google is rolling it out gradually, so check back later.
2. Set Up Your EV So Maps Only Shows Chargers That Fit Your Car
If you drive an electric vehicle, Google Maps can filter charging stations to only the ones compatible with your car. Head to your profile picture, then Settings, then Your vehicles, then Electric, where you can add your car’s make, model, year, trim and compatible charging plugs.
Once saved, searching for charging stations lets you filter by compatible plugs, so you stop wasting time checking whether each station’s charger fits. On supported EVs, Maps can also estimate how much battery you will use to reach your destination, which is genuinely useful on longer drives.
3. Connect Google Workspace and Photos for Smarter Trip Suggestions
Google Maps can pull in relevant information from your other Google apps to personalize your experience. Connect Google Workspace and the app can use details from Gmail, Calendar and Drive — for example, a hotel booking in your email could lead to more relevant suggestions when planning a trip.
Connecting Google Photos works the same way, using your photos, albums and location information to tailor recommendations. It is worth checking exactly what information you are allowing Google to use before switching these connections on.
4. Stop Maps Downloading Offline Maps Over Mobile Data
Offline maps are a lifesaver when your connection drops, but downloading them over mobile data can eat through your allowance. To fix that, tap your profile picture, go to Settings, then Offline maps, then Download preferences, and select Over Wi-Fi only.
With that set, Maps will only download map areas when you are on Wi-Fi, while still letting you navigate offline whenever you need it. Small change, real savings — and one more reason to stick with Google Maps instead of switching to another navigation app.
Also Read: 5 Google Maps Features You Probably Never Knew Existed (And How to Use Them) | Google’s Gemini Finally Comes to Apple CarPlay, a Year After Android Auto
Source: How-To Geek — read the full story there.
