Andy Walker / Android Authority
Did you know that Google Maps has a robust custom map creation tool? I don’t blame you if you don’t; Google doesn’t exactly make it easy to discover or use. Nevertheless, My Maps allows users to create custom maps with defined pins, highlighted routes, annotations, and more. When used correctly, it can transform how you plan trips, navigate, or discover new destinations within Google Maps.
It took me many moons to realize how adaptable and useful the feature is, and now I want to share this discovery with you. If you’re looking for ideas on using custom maps in Google Maps, you’re in the right place. Below, I explain how and where to create these maps, how to find your created maps in the Google Maps Android app, and how you can use custom maps to enhance your Maps experience in various scenarios.
Do you use Google My Maps? 956 votes Yes, I use it often! 29 % Yes, I've used it a few times. 28 % Yes, but ages ago. I didn't know that it still exists. 18 % No, but I would if it were more accessible on mobile. 15 % No, I have no need for it. 9 % No, I prefer using an alternative (let us know which in the comments). 2 %
How to create custom maps with Google My Maps
Andy Walker / Android Authority
There was once a time when Google offered users an app to create custom maps, but those days are long gone. Now, Google limits its My Map tool to web browsers. While you can view custom maps via the Google Maps app on Android, you can only create and edit maps via its web portal. It’s clunky and makes custom map creation a little more tedious than it really should be. Google really is wasting a clear opportunity to reinvent My Maps within the Google Maps framework.
So, how can you create a custom map? Follow the steps below: To create a custom map, open your favorite web browser and visit mymaps.google.com.
Google will prompt you to log in with your account details.
Once logged in, you’ll see a tiled display of the maps you have accessed. To create a new map, click the three-line menu button at the top left of the screen, then select Create a new map . Click Create again in the alert box that appears.
... continue reading