How to use Google Home with Google Maps
Google Home is a smart speaker that allows you to control your smart home devices, play music, set reminders, and get answers to your questions using just your voice. When combined with Google Maps, you can take advantage of some amazing features that make your daily commute and navigation easier. In this article, we'll show you how to use Google Home with Google Maps and explore some of the benefits it has to offer.
Setting up your home and work locations in Google Maps
One of the most useful features of Google Home when paired with Google Maps is the ability to set your home and work locations. This allows you to get commute times and traffic updates just by asking Google Assistant. To set your home and work locations, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Maps app on your device and find your home address.
- Tap on the "Save" button and select "Home" or "Work" as the location type.
- Google Assistant will then recognize these locations and provide you with commute times and traffic updates when you ask.
Remember that you must use Google Assistant in English and in the US to set personal locations besides home and work.
Getting directions and navigation with Google Home
With your home and work locations set, you can ask Google Home to provide you with directions to and from your locations. Simply say "Ok Google, what's the traffic like?" or "Ok Google, give me directions to work," and Google Home will respond with the latest traffic updates and turn-by-turn directions.
Using Google Maps on your Google Home
You can also use Google Maps directly on your Google Home by activating the Google Maps skill. To do this, follow these steps:
- Open the Google Home app and navigate to the "More" tab.
- Scroll down and select "Skills" and then search for "Google Maps.".
- Enable the Google Maps skill and follow the prompts to link your Google account.
Once enabled, you can ask Google Home to show you a map of a particular location by saying "Ok Google, show me the map of [location name]." Google Home will then display a map of the location on your device's screen.
Additional benefits of using Google Home with Google Maps

Using Google Home with Google Maps offers several additional benefits, including:
- Easy access to real-time traffic updates and commute times.
- Turn-by-turn directions and audio cues.
- Customizable commute settings and preferences.
- Integration with other Google services like Google Calendar and Google Photos.
Conclusion
Using Google Home with Google Maps is a game-changer for anyone who relies on their Google Assistant for daily navigation and commute information. By setting your home and work locations and activating the Google Maps skill, you can access real-time traffic updates, turn-by-turn directions, and other useful features that make your daily commute easier. Whether you're driving, walking, or biking, Google Home and Google Maps have got you covered.
FAQs and Troubleshooting
Q: Can I use Google Home with Google Maps on my Android or iOS device?
A: Yes, you can use Google Home with Google Maps on both Android and iOS devices.
Q: How do I enable the Google Maps skill on my Google Home?
A: To enable the Google Maps skill, open the Google Home app and navigate to the "More" tab. Scroll down and select "Skills" and then search for "Google Maps." Enable the skill and follow the prompts to link your Google account.
Q: Can I get directions to other locations besides my home and work locations?
A: Yes, you can get directions to other locations by saying "Ok Google, give me directions to [location name]." Google Home will then provide you with turn-by-turn directions to the location.