Google Maps Overhaul on iPhone: Inspired by Apple Maps, Check What’s New!

After rolling out its new interface on Android last summer, Google Maps has finally updated its iPhone app with a redesign that clearly draws inspiration from iOS and Apple Maps…

A More Intuitive and Accessible Interface

The main update involves moving away from full-screen views to rounded-corner floating bubbles. Now, when you open the map and look up a location, the image stretches upwards while still showing part of the map in the background, right behind the status bar. This simple yet effective design allows you to maintain visual context without losing track of your current location.

Google Maps also introduces a subtle but significant change in how to close announcements and location cards. The traditional Back button to the left of the search bar has been replaced by a clearly visible X button, located in the right corner of the sheet, next to the share icon.

This change is anything but trivial. It aims to make one-handed use easier, especially for iPhones with larger screens (and if you have small hands like me or are a bit clumsy, you might struggle), and brings Google Maps closer to the functionality of Apple Maps. For those accustomed to the iOS ergonomics, the experience now becomes more consistent and intuitive.

Simplified and More Readable Directions

Among other changes, the navigation page has also been redesigned. Before entering your destination, there is no major change; the display remains full-screen. However, once the destination is entered, the departure and arrival information now appears in a floating rectangle at the top of the screen, freeing up space for the map.

The mode of transport selector (car, bicycle, public transport, etc.) has been moved to the bottom of the screen, making it much more accessible for your thumb (again, with the logic of using one hand to hold and operate the iPhone). This update is clearly designed to enhance fluidity and minimize unnecessary gestures.