Stepping away from Google Maps led me to some hidden-gem alternatives and also some dealbreakers. You may find my final choice surprising.

CoMaps is community-driven, open-source, transparent, and the developers aren't concerned with making a profit. The app is fairly new (just hitting Google Play Store and the Apple App Store around ...

This free trip-planning supplement helps you find all sorts of interesting stops along whatever route you’re taking.

I'm glad I found it because the feature has now become an integral part of my daily navigation routine. It also made me ...

Add milk to the shopping list, text a friend your ETA, look up the best things to do during your upcoming trip and so on. But taking your hands off the wheel isn't the smartest move. That's where ...

Google also announced that it will be giving over $1 million to three local organizations, including Monroe-Gregg Schools, ...

Google today announced several new features that are coming to the Google Maps app, including Gemini-powered tips, trending places, and estimates on EV charger availability. When searching for places ...

Google is integrating its Gemini artificial intelligence assistant into the Maps navigation app. Drivers can access new Gemini features through voice commands on the Google Maps app. Google Maps, the ...

Google Maps is adding new AI features, including a builder agent and an MCP server — a tool that connects AI assistants to Google Maps’ technical documentation — to help developers and users create ...

Drivers navigating traffic on their morning commutes will be able to do much more than just find directions and the nearest gas station on Google Maps. In the coming weeks, Google will add its ...

Macy is a writer on the AI Team. She covers how AI is changing daily life and how to make the most of it. This includes writing about consumer AI products and their real-world impact, from ...

Update (9/12/25): Google Maps is back online. It's not just you: Google Maps is down. According to 9to5Google, the outage started sometime around 1 p.m. PT (4 p.m. PT), and seems to be isolated to the ...