Can we trust Google Maps to get us anywhere anymore?
June 20, 2025
During a recent journey home from a delightful weekend retreat in the countryside, I found myself relying on Google Maps, a tool I often turn to for comfort on longer drives, even when I’m familiar with the route. However, this time, the app seemed determined to lead me astray.
As I prepared to leave the quaint town, I faced a choice: a quicker toll road or a more leisurely scenic mountain pass. Opting to avoid tolls, I assumed Google Maps would guide me along the picturesque route. To my surprise, it proposed two drastically different paths—one that veered two hours north and another that took me 90 minutes south of my intended destination. Had I not glanced at my Android Auto display, I might have unwittingly embarked on one of these detours.
This experience shed light on a broader concern regarding the reliability of Google Maps, particularly in less familiar territories. It seems I am not alone in my frustrations; many users have shared similar stories of being led down convoluted paths. The question arises: is this a growing issue with the app?
Here are some questions for readers to ponder:
Has Google Maps ever gotten you lost? If so, share your experience.
What’s the most challenging location Google Maps has ever directed you to?
Do you believe that Maps has become less accurate and reliable over time?
Which navigation app do you prefer on Android, and what makes it your choice?
Would you consider paying a premium for a version of Google Maps that offers smarter navigation and more contextually aware features?
Engage with us in the comments below, sharing your own Google Maps adventures and insights.
Has Google Maps ever gotten you lost while driving?
In a recent poll, responses varied:
Yes. Google Maps consistently gets me lost: 6%
Yes. Once or twice, but not very often: 46%
No, Google Maps has always been a reliable guide for me: 39%
I don’t use Google Maps while driving: 9%
We invite you to share your thoughts and stories as we explore the intricacies of navigation in our modern world.
Can we trust Google Maps to get us anywhere anymore?
During a recent journey home from a delightful weekend retreat in the countryside, I found myself relying on Google Maps, a tool I often turn to for comfort on longer drives, even when I’m familiar with the route. However, this time, the app seemed determined to lead me astray.
As I prepared to leave the quaint town, I faced a choice: a quicker toll road or a more leisurely scenic mountain pass. Opting to avoid tolls, I assumed Google Maps would guide me along the picturesque route. To my surprise, it proposed two drastically different paths—one that veered two hours north and another that took me 90 minutes south of my intended destination. Had I not glanced at my Android Auto display, I might have unwittingly embarked on one of these detours.
This experience shed light on a broader concern regarding the reliability of Google Maps, particularly in less familiar territories. It seems I am not alone in my frustrations; many users have shared similar stories of being led down convoluted paths. The question arises: is this a growing issue with the app?
Here are some questions for readers to ponder:
Engage with us in the comments below, sharing your own Google Maps adventures and insights.
Has Google Maps ever gotten you lost while driving?
In a recent poll, responses varied:
We invite you to share your thoughts and stories as we explore the intricacies of navigation in our modern world.