- July 9, 2025
Garmin’s Smartwatches Now Have Access To Google Maps
The majority of Garmin’s smartwatches now come with a free Google Maps app that displays the location and distance of your next turn while you’re jogging, cycling, or walking.
Similar to Google Maps for the Apple Watch, Garmin’s Google Maps software offers limited functionality in comparison to the more feature-rich version of Google Maps available for Wear OS, which can be used to search for locations and even navigate without a smartphone. You must use the Google Maps app on an Android smartphone that must be within range to find your location because the Garmin app only offers simple turn-by-turn directions. Support for iOS and iPhones is not mentioned in the app’s listing on Garmin’s Connect IQ store.
According to Garmin, the software can display you your next three turns by only pressing the screen, and it will gently buzz your smartwatch when the next turn is given, saving you from having to continuously check your wrist. While you’re using the Google Maps app for navigation, your smartwatch will also keep track of how well you walk, run, and bike.
Garmin’s Connect IQ Store now offers the Google Maps app for download, which works with up to 90 different smartwatch models.