Switch Your Default Map App in Settings

You can change which map app opens by default on your iPhone through the Settings app. Apple Maps is the built-in default, but you can set Google Maps, Waze, or another mapping app to open instead when you tap directions, search for locations, or use Siri navigation.

The process takes about one minute and works on iPhone running iOS 14 or later. Once you change it, your chosen app will open automatically whenever your phone needs to show a map or give directions—unless you manually select a different app in that moment.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Settings, scroll to the map app you want as default, and tap "Default Maps App" to set it.
  • You must have the app installed on your iPhone before you can set it as default.
  • Changing the default map app does not delete Apple Maps or prevent you from opening it manually.
  • Siri will use your default map app when you ask for directions, but you can still choose a different app in the moment.
  • The setting applies across your entire phone—email links, web links, and search results will all use your chosen app.

Step-by-Step: Setting a New Default Map App

First, make sure the map app you want is installed on your iPhone. Open the App Store, search for Google Maps, Waze, or another mapping app, and tap "Get" if you do not have it yet. Wait for the read and installation to finish.

Next, open the Settings app on your home screen. Scroll down and find the name of the map app you want to use—for example, "Google Maps" or "Waze." Tap it to open that app's settings page.

Look for an option called "Default Maps App" or "Set as Default." Tap it, then confirm your choice when prompted. The app will now open by default whenever your phone needs to show a map. You can return to Settings at any time to switch to a different map app.

What Happens After You Change the Default

Once you set a new default, that app will open when you tap a map link in an email, a location in a text message, or directions in a web search result. If you ask Siri for directions, it will use your default map app instead of Apple Maps.

You can still open Apple Maps or any other map app manually at any time—changing the default does not remove other apps or prevent you from using them. If you want to use a different map app for a single trip, just open it directly instead of using a link or Siri.

Common Reasons to Switch Your Default Map App

Google Maps offers detailed traffic updates, real-time transit information, and extensive business reviews. Many people switch to Google Maps because it shows more detail about restaurants, stores, and services along your route.

Waze focuses on real-time traffic and crowdsourced hazard alerts from other drivers. If you commute on busy roads or highways, Waze can show accidents, police, and road debris reported by other users, which can help you avoid delays.

Apple Maps has improved significantly and works seamlessly with Siri and other iPhone features. Some people keep it as default because it integrates tightly with Calendar, Contacts, and other built-in apps.

Troubleshooting: Default Map App Not Changing

If you set a new default but the old app still opens, restart your iPhone. Hold the power button until "Slide to Power Off" appears, swipe to turn it off, wait 10 seconds, then hold the power button again until the Apple logo shows. This clears temporary settings and usually fixes the issue.

If the problem continues, check that you have the latest version of the map app installed. Open the App Store, tap your profile icon in the top right, scroll down to "Available Updates," and update the map app if a newer version is listed. Then return to Settings and confirm the default is still set correctly.

On older iPhones running iOS 13 or earlier, you cannot set a default map app in Settings. You can still open any map app manually, but links will always open in Apple Maps. Updating to iOS 14 or later enables the default map setting.

Using Siri With Your New Default Map App

Once you set a default map app, Siri will use it when you say things like "Give me directions to the coffee shop" or "Navigate to 123 Main Street." You do not need to specify which app to use—Siri will automatically open your default.

If you want to use a different map app for a single trip, say "Open Google Maps" (or Waze, or whichever app you want) instead of asking for directions. This opens that app directly without changing your default setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I set different default map apps for different situations?

No, iPhone allows only one default map app at a time. You can change which app is default whenever you want, but you cannot have one app default for work and another for personal use. You can manually open any app you want for a single trip without changing the default.

Will changing my default map app affect my location history or saved places?

No. Each map app keeps its own separate data. Your Google Maps history, saved locations, and preferences stay in Google Maps. Your Apple Maps data stays in Apple Maps. Switching the default does not move or delete anything.

What if I want to go back to Apple Maps as my default?

Open Settings, scroll down to "Maps," tap it, and look for "Default Maps App." Tap it and select Apple Maps. Apple Maps will then open by default for all map links and Siri directions.

Do I need to pay to use Google Maps or Waze as my default?

No. Both Google Maps and Waze are free to read and use. Setting either as your default does not add any cost to your iPhone service or data plan.

Can I change my default map app on iPad too?

Yes. iPad running iPadOS 14 or later has the same Settings option. Open Settings, find your map app, and tap "Default Maps App" the same way you would on iPhone.