A new AR feature in Google Maps helps for easier navigation

by Sudheer Y. Digital marketing Executive

Google Maps AR navigation was first demoed at Google I/O in 2018, getting a tease in early 2019, Presently only for Google maps Local guides get an early chance of experience to use AR feature

If there's no Google Street View in your area, the AR navigation won't work.

What is Google Maps AR?

Google Maps AR is designed to let you use augmented reality to help you navigate when walking. It uses the camera on the rear of the phone to identify where you are, Showing direction and details on the display, rather than just presenting you with a map.

Google Maps AR helps get around that problem of not knowing which way to walk - because the AR can then point in the right direction so you're heading the right way.

Where to find Google Maps AR?

AR function is easy to find in your Google Maps.

Search for a destination you want to walk to
Make sure you've selected walking
Tap the "Start AR" button at the bottom of the page

How do I use Google Maps AR

Once you hit the button, the AR page will open and the best route will be calculated. The directions will start, with voice instructions.

At this point, Google Maps will then attempt to identify what is around you by scanning what your camera will see and comparing it to Street View imagery. This happens in the top of the screen, while the bottom of the screen has normal walking directions.

However, to see the AR instructions you need your phone up and pointing at the street in front of you - and you can't walk like that. You'll get a warning to put your phone down, if you don't, Maps will blank out the screen until you do.