You may typically turn to Google Maps for information rather than to contribute to it. However, the app’s extensive database is not as static as one might assume. Users have the opportunity to submit their own information and edits, ranging from adding new locations to correcting driving routes.
While all submissions undergo a review process by the Google team, there is no guarantee that your changes will be reflected on the map. Nevertheless, by participating, you could be assisting billions of other active Google Maps users. Whether it’s correcting the misinformation about live music at your local bar or fixing persistent navigation errors, the app allows you to make these changes directly.
Adding new places to Google Maps
To introduce a new location within the Google Maps app, simply press and hold on the map at the desired spot to drop a pin. By swiping up on the pin’s info card at the bottom of the screen, you can select either Add a missing place or Add your business to Maps. If you opt for the latter, Google Maps will prompt you to complete and verify a business profile, which you can manage for future updates.
If the place you are adding is not under your management, you will need to provide a name and select a category. Categories include Food & drink, Shopping, Services, Hotels and accommodation, and Outdoors & recreation, so it’s essential to choose the most appropriate match.
While you can submit a place with just its name, location, and category, you have the option to enhance your submission with additional details such as a contact number, opening hours, and photos. Although Google does not explicitly outline the approval process for new submissions, it indicates that map data is continuously updated and reviewed, likely through a combination of automated systems and human oversight.
Editing place details in Google Maps
In addition to adding new places, users can also modify existing entries on Google Maps, a practice that Google actively encourages to maintain the accuracy of its information. If you notice discrepancies, such as incorrect opening times for a park, you can submit the correct details.
To do this, select the location on the map, pull up the info card, and navigate through various screens to make your changes. For instance, on the Overview tab, you can tap Suggest new hours to update opening times or Update location if the address is misplaced.
By swiping to the About tab, you can access more specific details, such as whether a restaurant offers delivery or has parking facilities. Tapping Edit features allows you to contribute your local knowledge across various categories.
While Google does not disclose how these edits are reviewed, it is likely to prevent misuse of the system. Users may receive email notifications regarding the status of their edits, and factors such as similar suggestions from other users and the contributor’s history may influence the approval process.
How to add missing roads or suggest route changes to Google Maps
There are additional avenues for updating information on Google Maps. By navigating to the Contribute tab, you will find an Update road button that allows you to add missing roads, edit road names, indicate if a road is private or closed, or specify whether it is one-way or two-way.
Feedback on directions must be submitted through Google Maps on the web. With directions displayed, click Details next to the directions on the left, then select Send product feedback at the bottom right. This feature enables you to flag incorrect steps and provide explanations for the inaccuracies.
However, a word of caution: users may find that their suggestions are not always implemented. For instance, despite numerous attempts to correct the directions to my home, which should lead down a longer but fully paved road instead of a shorter unpaved track, the app continues to provide the incorrect route.
Additionally, there is a general feedback form available for all other inquiries related to Google Maps. Within the mobile app, tap your profile picture in the top right corner, then choose Help and feedback > Send product feedback.
