Google Maps finally redesigns settings on Android

Of all the first-party apps, Google Maps probably offered the worst settings experience, but a redesign is finally cleaning things up.

The previous settings list was years old, with Google continuously adding menus and on/off toggles to it. It was an eyesore, especially the random emoji, that did not fit everything into one page.

This Google Maps settings redesign sees everything grouped into seven high-level menus with accompanying icons and descriptions. It’s somewhat reminiscent of Google (Search) app, with “Settings” left-aligned and a close ‘x’ at the right.

App & display: Theme, map controls, accessibility

Navigation: Driving, walking, transit

Your vehicles: Engine type, connected vehicles

Location & privacy: Timeline, Maps history, profile

Offline maps: Download options, updates

Notifications: Reminders, recommendations

Old vs. new

Menus like Navigation, Your vehicles, and Offline maps are unchanged from before once you dive in. However, others are new and consolidate related preferences.

We’re seeing this roll out with version 25.49 of Google Maps in the stable channel following a server-side update. It’s not yet widely available on Android.

We’re also seeing this revamp on iOS, though the iPhone app had a different, cleaner design than the Android version.

More on Google Maps:

Gemini app rolling out richer, more visual Google Maps results

Google Maps parking location now automatically saves on iOS, adds custom icons

Google Maps Power Saving mode rolling out to Pixel 10

Google Maps starts rolling out Gemini for all navigation modes 

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.