Launch Google Maps

  • Launch Google Maps using universal, cross-platform URLs or platform-specific intents.

  • Maps URLs are the recommended approach for building links that work across different platforms, enabling searches, directions, and map views.

  • Google Maps Intents are available for Android, allowing your app to trigger specific actions within the Google Maps app.

  • To embed a map directly into your Android app, consult the Maps SDK for Android documentation.
Select platform: Android iOS

You have a couple of options available to launch Google Maps. Follow the links below to learn more.

Maps URLs (recommended)

Using Maps URLs, you can build a universal, cross-platform URL to launch Google Maps and perform searches, get directions and navigation, and display map views and panoramic images. These universal URLs allow for broader handling of the maps requests no matter which platform the user is on.

Google Maps Intents for Android

Using intents in your Android app, you can start an activity in another app by describing a simple action you'd like to perform (such as "display a map" or "show directions to the airport") in an Intent object. The Google Maps app for Android supports several different intents, allowing you to launch the Google Maps app in display, search, navigation, or Street View modes.

If you want to embed a map in your app, please refer to the Maps SDK for Android guide to getting started.