Garmin has rolled out a free Google Maps app for its smartwatches, giving users real-time, turn-by-turn navigation directly on their wrist. Whether you’re walking, biking, or commuting, this feature allows for hands-free guidance without needing to constantly check your phone.

The Google Maps experience on Garmin isn’t as advanced as on Wear OS, as you can’t search for locations directly on the watch. Instead, you select a destination on your Android smartphone using the Google Maps app, which must remain nearby. Once navigation begins, your Garmin watch mirrors the route and displays upcoming turns in real-time, similar to how Apple Watch handles directions. Currently, the app is compatible only with Android devices — iPhone support hasn’t been confirmed.

How It Works:

Once paired with your Android phone, Garmin smartwatches automatically display directions when navigation is initiated from Google Maps. Turn indicators, distance to the next turn, and route changes are clearly shown on the screen. If you veer off route, the app recalculates and updates directions instantly.

Key Benefits:

• For commuters: Navigate busy streets without pulling out your phone.

• For cyclists: Keep both hands on the handlebars while receiving turn alerts.

• For hikers and runners: Stay on track without draining your phone battery.

• For travelers: Check directions discreetly while exploring new areas.

To make navigation more seamless, Garmin smartwatches gently vibrate as a turn approaches. Users can also tap the display to preview up to three upcoming turns. All the while, your activity—walking, running, or biking—is tracked as usual.

The new Google Maps feature is now live on the Garmin Connect IQ Store and supports over 90 smartwatch models, including the Venu, Forerunner, and Fenix series. An Android phone is required to initiate navigation, but once started, the process remains largely hands-free.