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How to use the speedometer and speed limit in Google Maps on an iPhone
For more than five years, Android users have been able to see the speedometer and speed limit when using their phones to navigate with Google Maps. Now, that same capability has finally come to Google Maps for iOS.
The speedometer and speed limit display is available to iPhone users around the world, Google told TechCrunch in July 2024. Once you start using the latest version of Google Maps for iOS to head to your destination, your car's speed and the speed limit will appear in miles or kilometers, depending on your current region. The speed limit indicator even changes colors to tell you whether you're driving within the posted speed limit.
The capability should serve as a useful indicator for any iPhone owner behind the wheel. Your eyes sometimes naturally check the iPhone or CarPlay screen for visual help as you drive. Seeing both your own speed and the speed limit on the screen can help you stay within the limit and avoid a hefty fine and ticket.
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Still, a Google Maps support page cautions you that the speedometer shown in the app is for informational purposes only. Google advises drivers to check their car's actual speedometer to confirm their driving speed.
I tried out the new display on a drive, and both the speedometer and speed limit appeared on my iPhone and my CarPlay screen. Although I typically use Apple Maps when navigating, this may provide a bit more incentive to use Google Maps the next time I take my car for a ride.
Here's how to set up and use the feature.
Set up the speedometer and speed limit display in Google Maps on your iPhone
1. Download Google Maps
First, make sure you're running the latest version of Google Maps for iOS. If you already have the app, open the App Store, tap your profile icon, swipe down on the screen, and then tap the "Update All" link to update all your installed apps.
If you don't yet have the app, download and install it from Apple's App Store.
The new display for speedometer and speed limits is available as of Google Maps for iOS version 6.123.0. To confirm that you have this version, launch the app on your iPhone, tap your profile icon in the upper right, and select Settings. Swipe to the bottom of the Settings screen and select the option for "About, terms & privacy." The next screen will show the version number and other details.
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2. Turn on the speedometer and speed limit display
You can turn on the speedometer and speed limits in a couple different ways.
Open Google Maps on your iPhone and tap your profile icon. Go to Settings, select Navigation, and then select "Driving options."
If you don't see that screen, here's an alternative. Make sure you're at the Navigation screen in Google Maps. Swipe down to the Map display section. The fourth option should say "Show speedometer" -- flip the switch to turn it on.
3. Go for a drive
To see the new display in action, fire up Google Maps through your iPhone or through CarPlay. Set a specific destination to see directions to it. Once you're on the road, the screen will display both the current speed limit and your speed. If your speed remains the same color, then you're being a safe driver. If your speed changes to orange, then watch out as you're going over the limit.