Google Maps has become an essential tool for navigation, and its speedometer feature adds another layer of usefulness. To enable the speedometer in Google Maps, go to Settings > Navigation settings > Driving options, then toggle on the Speedometer option. This handy feature displays your current speed while driving, helping you stay aware of how fast you’re moving without looking away from your navigation.
The speedometer setting works alongside the speed limit indicator, giving you a complete picture of your driving speed. It’s worth noting that this feature is account-based, which means once you enable it on your account, it should appear across all your devices where you’re signed in to Google Maps.
If you don’t see the speedometer option right away, make sure your Google Maps app is updated to the latest version. The display shows your speed in either miles or kilometers per hour depending on your regional settings, making it easy to monitor your driving and help you stay within legal speed limits.
How To Enable Speedometer In Google Maps
Google Maps includes a built-in speedometer feature that shows your current driving speed directly on the navigation screen. This can help you monitor your speed, stay within limits, and avoid speeding tickets.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to enable the speedometer in Google Maps.
✅ Before You Start
- The speedometer feature is available primarily on Android devices.
- On iPhone (iOS), the feature may not be available in all regions.
- Make sure your Google Maps app is updated to the latest version.
To update:
- Android: Open Google Play Store → Search Google Maps → Tap Update
- iPhone: Open App Store → Search Google Maps → Tap Update
📱 How To Enable Speedometer on Android
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Open Google Maps
Launch the Google Maps app on your Android device.
Step 2: Open Settings
- Tap your profile picture in the top-right corner.
- Select Settings.
Step 3: Go to Navigation Settings
Scroll down and tap Navigation settings.
Step 4: Turn on Speedometer
Scroll until you find Driving options. Toggle on Speedometer.
✅ Once enabled, your current speed will appear in the bottom corner of the screen when you start navigation.
🚗 How To Use the Speedometer
- Enter your destination.
- Tap Start to begin navigation.
- The speedometer will appear on the map interface.
If speed limit data is available in your area, Google Maps may also show the posted speed limit next to your current speed.
📍 Why the Speedometer Might Not Appear
If you don’t see the option, it could be because:
- The feature isn’t available in your country.
- Your app isn’t updated.
- You’re using an iPhone (limited support).
- You haven’t started navigation yet (it only appears during active navigation).
🍎 What About iPhone?
On iOS, Google Maps may not offer the speedometer feature in many regions. However, Apple Maps includes a built-in speed limit display in supported areas.
If speed tracking is important to you on iPhone, you may need to:
- Use Apple Maps instead
- Try third-party navigation apps like Waze (which shows both speed and speed limits)
⚠️ Important Note
The Google Maps speedometer:
- Uses your phone’s GPS to estimate speed.
- May not be 100% accurate.
- Should not replace your vehicle’s built-in speedometer.
Always prioritize safe driving and obey local traffic laws.
✅ Final Thoughts
Enabling the speedometer in Google Maps is quick and easy — especially on Android. It’s a useful feature for monitoring your driving speed and improving road awareness.
Just head to: Profile → Settings → Navigation settings → Turn on Speedometer
Drive safe! 🚘
Key Takeaways
- The speedometer feature can be enabled through Google Maps Settings under Navigation and Driving options
- Google Maps can display both your current speed and the posted speed limit side by side while navigating
- The speedometer setting is tied to your Google account and will sync across all your devices
Understanding the Speedometer Feature in Google Maps
Google Maps offers a helpful speedometer feature that displays your current speed while navigating. This tool helps drivers stay aware of their speed and improves overall safety during trips.
Role of the Speedometer in Navigation
The speedometer in Google Maps shows your real-time speed as you drive. It appears in the corner of your screen during navigation, making it easy to check without looking away from the road for too long. This feature works through your phone’s GPS to calculate how fast you’re moving.
Unlike a car’s built-in speedometer, the Google Maps version gives you digital speed readings that complement your navigation experience. It’s especially useful when driving in unfamiliar areas where speed limits might change frequently.
The speedometer serves as a backup to your vehicle’s dashboard display. It can be particularly helpful in rental cars or when your regular speedometer is hard to see.
Benefits of Having a Live Speedometer
Having a live speedometer in Google Maps offers several advantages. First, it helps you avoid speeding tickets by making you more aware of your current speed. This is especially useful when traveling through areas with strict speed enforcement.
The feature also improves safety by encouraging drivers to maintain appropriate speeds. When you can easily see how fast you’re going, you’re more likely to adjust your driving to match road conditions.
For travelers in rental cars or unfamiliar vehicles, the Google Maps speedometer provides a consistent speed reference they can trust. It’s also helpful when driving internationally where speed measurements might differ from what you’re used to.
The speedometer works alongside the speed limit feature (where available), giving you both your current speed and the posted limit in one view.
Enabling the Speedometer on Different Devices
Google Maps offers a speedometer feature that displays your current driving speed during navigation. The setup process varies slightly depending on whether you’re using an Android or iOS device.
Steps for Android Devices
To enable the speedometer on your Android device:
- Open the Google Maps app
- Tap your profile picture or initial in the top right corner
- Select “Settings”
- Scroll down and tap “Navigation settings”
- Find the “Driving options” section
- Toggle on “Speedometer”
If you don’t see the speedometer option, try updating your Google Maps app to version 6.123.0 or newer. Sometimes clearing the app cache can also help resolve issues with missing settings.
The speedometer will now appear in the bottom corner of your screen during navigation. It shows your current speed and changes color when you exceed the speed limit.
Instructions for iOS Devices
Enabling the speedometer on your iPhone requires a few different steps:
- Launch Google Maps on your iOS device
- Tap your profile icon in the top right
- Go to “Settings”
- Select “Navigation settings”
- Look for “Speedometer” under driving preferences
- Toggle the switch to turn it on
If the speedometer option isn’t visible, try clearing the application data. Open Google Maps, go to Settings > About, terms and privacy > Clear application data.
Keep in mind that the speedometer feature is account-based on iOS. This means you need to be logged into your Google account to access this setting. If you still can’t find it, check if your app is updated to the latest version.
Navigating Speedometer Settings in Google Maps
Finding and enabling the speedometer feature in Google Maps can help you stay aware of your driving speed. The settings are tucked away in the app’s navigation menu, but with a few taps, you can customize how speed information appears during your drives.
Accessing Driving Options
To turn on the speedometer in Google Maps, start by opening the app on your phone. Tap your profile picture or initial in the top right corner to access the menu. Select “Settings” from the dropdown list that appears.
In the Settings menu, look for “Navigation Settings” and tap on it. Scroll down through this menu until you find the “Speedometer” option. If you don’t see this option, make sure your Google Maps app is updated to the latest version.
The speedometer toggle switch can be tapped to turn the feature on or off. When enabled, a small speedometer will appear on your screen during navigation, showing your current speed.
Customizing Speed Limit Display
Besides the speedometer, Google Maps offers options to display speed limits on roads. In the same Navigation Settings menu, look for the “Speed Limits” option. Turn this on to see posted speed limits alongside your current speed.
Some versions of Google Maps allow you to choose how speed warnings appear. You can select visual warnings only, or enable sound alerts that notify you when exceeding the speed limit. These options may vary based on your location and app version.
For a safer driving experience, you can customize when alerts happen. Some settings let you set the threshold for warnings, like getting notified when exceeding the limit by 5 mph or 10 mph.
Not all regions support speed limit displays, so this feature might not be available in all areas.
Speedometer Integration with Car Displays
Google Maps speedometer can work with your car’s display system when you connect your phone. This lets you see your speed while following directions on your car’s larger screen.
Utilizing Speedometer on Apple CarPlay
Apple CarPlay makes using Google Maps speedometer in your car simple. To get started, connect your iPhone to your car using a USB cable or wireless connection if your vehicle supports it. Once connected, open Google Maps on your CarPlay screen.
The speedometer won’t automatically appear on CarPlay. You’ll need to enable it first in your phone’s Google Maps settings. Go to Settings > Navigation settings and toggle on the speedometer option.
Not all vehicles support showing the Google Maps speedometer through CarPlay. Some users report that the feature works differently on the car display than on their phone. If you don’t see the speedometer, try updating your Google Maps app or checking if your car’s system needs an update.
Displaying Speed Limits on Car Dashboards
Google Maps can show speed limits alongside your current speed when connected to your car’s dashboard. This helpful feature displays a small speed limit icon in the corner of your navigation screen.
The speed limit feature works on most newer car displays that support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The system uses Google’s database of speed limits, which is regularly updated but may not be accurate everywhere.
To ensure you see speed limits on your car’s display, check that the feature is enabled in Google Maps settings. Go to Navigation settings and look for “Speed limits” or “Speedometer” options.
Some cars display a colored warning when you exceed the speed limit. The icon typically turns red when you drive faster than the posted limit, giving you a quick visual alert without taking your eyes off the road.
Troubleshooting Common Speedometer Issues
Sometimes the speedometer feature in Google Maps may not work as expected. These issues typically stem from inaccurate readings or connectivity problems with your device’s GPS.
Addressing Speedometer Inaccuracy
If your Google Maps speedometer shows incorrect speeds, try these fixes:
- Recalibrate your device’s sensors by restarting your phone
- Update Google Maps to the latest version through your app store
- Clear the app cache in your device settings
- Check if the speedometer is enabled for your account
Speed discrepancies often happen when traveling through areas with poor GPS coverage. The app may show speeds that differ from your vehicle’s dashboard. This is normal and should improve when you reach areas with better signal strength.
For persistent issues, verify that your phone’s location services are set to “High accuracy” mode in your device settings.
Resolving GPS Signal Problems
When the speedometer disappears or fluctuates wildly, GPS signal issues are usually to blame:
- Position your phone where it has clear access to the sky (dashboard mount rather than cup holder)
- Remove phone cases that might block GPS signals
- Turn off battery saver modes that restrict location services
- Check for interference from other electronic devices
If problems continue, try toggling location services off and on. Some users report that simply logging out and back into their Google account can resolve speedometer visibility issues, as the feature is account-based according to Google Support.
In very rural areas or during severe weather, GPS signals may naturally weaken. Be patient as the signal typically returns on its own.
Understanding Speed Limits and Safety
Speed limits and safety features in Google Maps work together to help drivers stay aware of road conditions and avoid tickets. The app combines visual alerts and speed data to keep you informed while driving.
Interpreting Speed Limit Signs on the Map
Google Maps displays speed limit icons on the navigation screen to help you follow local traffic rules. These icons usually appear in the bottom corner of the screen during navigation. The current speed limit is shown in a circular sign, similar to real-world road signs. When you exceed the speed limit, the icon may change color (often to red) as a visual warning.
Google uses AI technology and street-level imagery to keep speed limit data accurate and up-to-date. This means the app can identify and display speed limits even in areas where road signs might have changed recently.
Speed limits in the app are not always available in every location. Coverage depends on the area you’re driving in and the availability of accurate data for that region.
Ensuring Safe Driving Practices with Speedometer Data
The speedometer feature in Google Maps shows your current driving speed directly on the navigation screen. This helps you monitor your speed without taking your eyes off the road for too long to check your car’s dashboard.
Using both the speedometer and speed limit features together creates a safer driving experience. You can quickly compare your current speed with the posted limit and adjust accordingly.
Some versions of Google Maps also include speed limit warnings that can alert you with a sound when you exceed the posted limit. This extra layer of safety helps prevent accidental speeding.
Remember that while these tools are helpful, they should supplement—not replace—your attention to actual road signs and conditions. Weather, construction, and other factors might require driving below the posted limit for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Google Maps offers a speedometer feature that shows your current speed while navigating. However, many users struggle to find or enable this helpful tool on their devices.
What are the steps to activate the speedometer feature on Google Maps for iOS devices?
Currently, the speedometer feature isn’t available for iOS devices. Google hasn’t released this functionality for iPhones or iPads yet.
iOS users need to use alternative navigation apps that include speedometer features instead.
Can you guide me through enabling the speedometer on an Android device using Google Maps?
To enable the speedometer on Android, first open Google Maps. Tap your profile picture in the top right corner.
Next, select “Settings” and scroll to find “Navigation settings.” In this menu, look for the “Speedometer” toggle switch and turn it on.
The feature will now display your current speed in the bottom corner of the screen during navigation.
How can users view the speedometer within the Google Maps application?
Once enabled, the speedometer appears automatically during navigation mode. It displays as a small circle in the bottom corner of the screen.
The number inside the circle shows your current speed. The speedometer only appears when the app is actively providing directions.
If you’re just browsing the map without navigation, the speedometer won’t be visible.
Why is the speedometer option not visible on my iPhone when using Google Maps?
The speedometer feature is not available for iOS versions of Google Maps. This is a limitation set by Google, not due to any settings on your device.
Apple users who need a speedometer must use other navigation apps that offer this feature instead of Google Maps.
What could be the reason behind the absence of the speedometer feature in Google Maps on certain devices?
Some devices might not show the speedometer option due to regional restrictions. Google limits certain features in specific countries based on local laws.
Outdated versions of the app might also lack this feature. Updating Google Maps to the latest version could solve this problem.
In some cases, your device’s GPS capabilities might not be accurate enough for Google to enable the speedometer feature.
What troubleshooting steps should be taken if the speedometer doesn’t appear on Google Maps while using Android Auto?
According to the search results, the speedometer feature is not available in Google Maps when using Android Auto. This is a known limitation.
Users who want to see their speed while using Android Auto should check their car’s built-in speedometer instead.
If you need a digital speedometer while driving, you’ll need to use your phone directly rather than through Android Auto.
