How to Install Google Maps on Your Windows PC

Are you an avid Google Maps user who wishes they had an easy way to access it on their Windows PC? You’re not alone! While Google Maps is a staple on Android and iOS devices, there isn’t an official desktop application for Windows… yet. But fear not! In this guide, we’ll show you how to seamlessly use Google Maps on your Windows PC without the need for a dedicated app. Whether you’re planning a road trip, checking out new places, or simply love exploring maps, this step-by-step guide is here to solve your problem.

The Windows Dilemma

Google Maps works like a charm on smartphones and tablets. However, when it comes to Windows PCs, the story takes a different turn. Windows offers its native Microsoft Maps app, but many users still prefer the familiar interface and extensive geographic data of Google Maps. So, let’s bridge that gap and make it work for you.

Installing Google Maps as a Desktop App Using Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Edge comes to the rescue by allowing you to install web apps or websites as Windows desktop apps. Here’s how to set up Google Maps as a desktop app using Microsoft Edge:

1. Launch Microsoft Edge: Open the Edge browser and navigate to the Google Maps website.
2. Access the Context Menu: Click on the three-dots menu in the top-right corner of the browser to open the context menu.
3. Install Google Maps: Go to “Apps” in the context menu and select “Install Google Maps.”

   

4. Confirmation: Confirm the installation by clicking “Install” in the pop-up dialog. Wait for Edge to finish installing the app.

   

5. Customize: Once installed, Google Maps will open in a new window. During the initial setup, you can choose to pin the app to the taskbar, Start menu, create a desktop shortcut, and enable auto-start after login.

Now you can launch and use Google Maps just like any other desktop app on your Windows PC. It provides access to your timeline, recent and saved items, contributions, and even supports location sharing.

Uninstalling Google Maps Added via Edge

If you ever want to remove Google Maps from your PC, follow these steps:

1. Search for Google Maps: Press the Win key and type “Google Maps.”
2. Uninstall: Right-click on Google Maps and select “Uninstall.” Confirm the action by clicking “Yes,” and the app will be removed from your system.

   

Running Google Maps as a Desktop App Using Google Chrome

If Google Chrome is your preferred browser, you can add Google Maps as a shortcut, effectively running it as a desktop app on your Windows PC. Here’s how:

1. Launch Google Chrome: Open Google Chrome and go to the Google Maps website.
2. Access the Menu: Click on the three-dots menu in the top-right corner.
3. Create Shortcut: Navigate to “More Tools” and select “Create Shortcut.”

   

4. Configuration: In the Create shortcut dialog, choose the “Open as window” option. You can also rename the app if you prefer.
5. Finalize: Click “Create.”

Once installed, the Google Maps app will open in a new window, providing a similar set of functionalities as the web version.

Pinning Google Maps to Taskbar and Start Menu

For quick access, you can pin the Maps app to your taskbar and Start menu. Simply press the Win key, type “maps” in Windows search, right-click on the Google Maps shortcut, and select “Pin to Start” or “Pin to Taskbar.”

Uninstalling a Google Maps Shortcut Added via Chrome

If you decide to remove the Google Maps shortcut installed via Chrome, here’s how to do it:

1. Open Run: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Access Control Panel: Type “control” and click OK to open the Control Panel.
3. Programs and Features: Go to “Programs” > “Programs and Features” in the Control Panel.
4. Uninstall: Select “Google Maps” from the list of installed programs and click “Uninstall.”

While web apps are convenient for quick access, they lack some features, such as the ability to download offline maps. If you prefer running Google Maps natively on Windows, consider using an Android emulator or installing the Google Play Store on Windows to access the app directly from the official store.

Navigating With Google Maps on Windows

Installing web apps streamlines access without keeping your browser open continually. However, it does have limitations. Notably, the web version doesn’t support offline map downloads, so you’ll still need your phone for offline navigation.

Alternatively, you can explore Microsoft Maps, which offers the capability to download maps for offline navigation, along with other handy features like favorite places, map collections, annotation tools for creating map markings, and more.

In conclusion, while Windows may not have an official Google Maps app, these methods will help you integrate Google Maps seamlessly into your Windows PC experience. Happy exploring!

About the Author:

Tashreef Shareef is a technology enthusiast with years of experience in writing tech-related articles. He’s passionate about solving everyday tech problems and helping users make the most of their devices.

Tashreef’s expertise and insightful tips make him a reliable source for tech-related advice. In this article, he guides Windows users on how to make the most of Google Maps on their PCs.