How to Find North on Google Maps on iPhone or iPad

Using the Compass

Open Google Maps on your iPhone or iPad. It’s a map icon with a “G” and red pin, typically found on one of the home screens.

Tap the location button. It’s the solid black circle inside a larger circle with crosshairs. It’s near the bottom-right corner of the map.

Tap the compass icon. It’s above the location button, and has one arrow tip and one white.

Find the “N” on the compass. The map will reposition so that the red arrow of the compass is facing north. You’ll know it’s pointing north because of the “N.” The compass disappears quickly, so you may need to tap the location button and then the compass again to view the “N” and arrow.

Setting the Top of the Map to North

Open Google Maps on your iPhone or iPad. It’s a map icon with a “G” and red pin, typically found on one of the home screens. Use this method to make sure the top of the map always indicates which way is north.

Tap ≡. It’s at the top-left corner of the screen.

Tap Settings. It’s near the middle of the menu.

Scroll down and tap Navigation settings.

Slide the “Keep map north up” switch to Android 7 Switch On. As long as this switch is on/blue, the top of the map will always be north.