Google's Incognito mode for Google Maps can increase your privacy when searching and navigating. Here's how to turn it on on your device.

What is Google Maps' Incognito mode?

Google Maps' Incognito mode works just like it does in the Chrome browser: When enabled, you can search for a location or navigate anywhere in the Google Maps app, and Google won’t save that information to your Google account.

Back in 2018, Google also introduced an Incognito mode for the YouTube app on Android. Both modes work the same, giving you more control over your privacy.

How to turn on Google Maps' Incognito mode?

It's easy and works much the same on Android or iOS. You can turn Incognito mode on by following these steps:

  1. On your phone or tablet, open the Google Maps app.
  2. In the top right, tap your profile picture.
  3. Tap Turn on Incognito mode.

How to turn off Google Maps' Incognito mode?

  1. On your phone or tablet, open the Google Maps app.
  2. In the top right, tap your profile picture.
  3. Tap Turn off Incognito mode.

What features are disabled when using Incognito mode?

When using Incognito mode in Google Maps, the following features are disabled:

  1. Commute
  2. Following
  3. Location History (will be paused for your entire device, not just Maps.)
  4. Location Sharing
  5. Notifications and messages
  6. Search history
  7. Search completion suggestions
  8. Google Maps Contributions
  9. Google Assistant microphone in Navigation
  10. Offline Maps
  11. Your Places
  12. Media integration 

During Maps incognito mode, the Google Assistant microphone isn’t available in navigation, but otherwise, the assistant feature will continue to work as expected.