Navigating city streets, unfamiliar neighborhoods, or distant hiking trails is now becoming more streamlined for Garmin users. Google Maps is officially accessible on select Garmin smartwatches, allowing real-time directions and guidance directly from the wearer’s wrist. With rising demands for integrated navigation, athletes, travelers, and everyday users alike can benefit from this upgrade without pulling out their phones. This advancement results from collaboration between Garmin and Google, reflecting trends towards multi-platform compatibility in wearables. Users will need a nearby Android phone to utilize the feature, positioning the update as a practical, but not completely independent, tool.
Earlier reports about smartwatch navigation had focused on proprietary solutions like Garmin’s own mapping tools and limited third-party options. There have been recurring requests for wider app support, particularly Google’s navigation services, which remained absent from Garmin devices for many years as competitors like Samsung Galaxy Watch and Apple Watch secured such integrations. Older attempts at similar functionality often required workarounds or lacked real-time updates. The new rollout steps past these constraints by allowing turn-by-turn navigation and route previews with visual cues directly on the supported wearables, although the reliance on an Android phone is still required.
Which Garmin Devices Now Support Google Maps?
The models eligible for this update include select Fenix 7 Pro series, Epix Pro (Gen 2), and select Forerunner and Venu models, expanding utility for users of popular Garmin smartwatches. Support extends to the Enduro 2 and Marq series as well, covering a range of both fitness-focused and premium devices. To access Google Maps directions, users will require the up-to-date Garmin Connect app on their Android smartphones, with instructions mirrored from the phone to the watch in real-time.
How Does the Google Maps Experience Work on Garmin Watches?
Once the function is enabled, users can start navigation from their phone and view step-by-step guidance, estimated arrival times, and distance remaining on their smartwatch’s display. Direction prompts vibrate or chime to catch attention, minimizing the need to glance at the smartphone mid-journey. The connection maintains synchronization as long as the phone remains within Bluetooth range. According to Garmin,
“the integration allows you to start navigation via the Maps app, and each turn will be mirrored on your watch for convenience.”
What Are the Limitations and Requirements?
Currently, this feature is available only with Android devices running Garmin Connect version 4.75 or higher, and there is no equivalent support for iPhones. The update does not turn Garmin watches into full standalone navigation devices, as internet access and processing still happen via the smartphone. Battery impacts will depend on usage frequency, Bluetooth connectivity, and screen-on time during navigation.
Bringing Google Maps to Garmin wearables diversifies the navigation experience for active users, but some limitations remain. The dependence on Android smartphones might narrow the feature’s appeal among users who rely on iOS devices or seek completely phone-free navigation. Integration with Google Maps has long been sought after, and its arrival marks a notable expansion of options beyond Garmin’s internal apps, offering more familiar route guidance and map information directly on the wrist. Selecting the correct model and maintaining updated software will remain key steps for users intent on leveraging this new capability. While the convenience factor is clear, those seeking independent wearable navigation will need to watch for future updates or hardware developments that offer more autonomous solutions, especially as wearable computing continues to progress across multiple brands and platforms.
