How to Change the Google Maps Navigation Voice

There are many voice options available

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Amanda Derrick
Amanda Derrick
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Amanda Derrick is a mechanical engineer, business strategist, and former Lifewire writer who has also written for USAF Civil Service, ATK, and Boeing.
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Amanda Derrick
Updated on May 28, 2020
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Jon Fisher
Lifewire Tech Review Board Member
Jonathan Fisher is a CompTIA certified technologist with more than 6 years' experience writing for publications like TechNorms and Help Desk Geek.
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Article reviewed on Apr 04, 2020
Jon Fisher

Google Maps is one of the most popular navigation tools out there, but did you know that there are other voice options for your navigator? If you're gearing up for a long road trip, or just using Maps to avoid surprises on your daily commute, you might enjoy having a new voice along for the ride.

Here's how you can use your device settings to make that road trip with a driving companion in the accent or language of your choice.

These instructions work for the Google Maps app on iOS or Android. The screenshots below are from an Android smartphone.

Changing the Language on Google Maps

Google Maps offers a variety of languages and dialects. The iOS app has a dozen different English language options, designated by geographical areas such as Canada, India, or Great Britain. The Spanish language also has multiple geographical options, as do other widely used languages, such as French. Android has more than 50 language and dialects like English (UK), Deutsch, Filipino, and English (Nigeria).

  1. In the Google Maps app, tap your face to the right of the search bar at the top of the app.

  2. Scroll down and select Settings.

  3. Scroll down and go to Navigation settings.

    Changing the voice language on Google Maps.

  4. Choose Voice selection.

  5. Select a voice from the list.

    Changing the voice language on Google Maps.

Can you use Google Assistant Voices on Google Maps?

Google Maps and Google Assistant are completely separate entities. While Google Assistant has garnered attention for updated voices and celebrity voice additions, Google Maps does not currently allow for voice options outside of those located in the process outlined here.

If you're looking for more unique voice options, check out Google-owned Waze, which has more voice options and occasional promotional voices such as Lightning McQueen or Morgan Freeman. In fact, Waze even lets you record your own voice.