Google announced in a blog post last month that Google Maps would play nicer with Apple Watch in the "coming weeks". Now, it is following up on that promise, by returning the Google Maps app to the Apple Watch.
Features in the new Apple Watch app include route estimates and step-by-step directions for saved locations. You must use saved destinations; you can't navigate to new locations directly from the Watch. However, if you ever want to take a sudden trip but still get navigation help from your wrist, just make sure your phone initiates the route, and then your Apple Watch can take over the navigation process.
To get the new app on the Apple Watch, update the Google Maps app on the iPhone to the latest version (5.52). Here’s the download. Keep in mind that the watchOS app requires watchOS 5 or later, so that means the original Apple Watch is sitting this one out.
Google Maps first became available for the Apple Watch in 2015, but it hasn’t been available to download in three years, since Google removed it without explanation. The new app was first announced last month, when Google also announced that those who update to iOS 13.7 can also use Google Maps as part of the CarPlay Dashboard on all CarPlay supported vehicles globally.
