Google Maps for iPhone Gets a Fresh Look with Sheet-Based Redesign and Improved Reachability
Summary of Google Maps for iPhone Update
Google Maps has introduced a significant redesign for the iPhone, following a similar overhaul on Android back in July. This update brings several user interface changes aimed at improving navigation and reachability.
Key Updates:
- Sheet-Based Design: All bottom sheets now have more rounded corners, and when you tap on a place listing and slide up, the map remains partially visible behind the status bar. This helps maintain context while navigating through different screens.
- Improved Reachability: The traditional back button in the search bar has been replaced with an 'x' icon in the top-right corner of the sheet next to the share shortcut. This change is designed to make it easier to use the app one-handed and aligns with Apple Maps' behavior.
- Directions UI Redesign: The initial page for entering a destination remains fullscreen, but once a location is entered, the start/end points are shown in a floating rectangle at the top. The transportation mode switcher has been moved to the bottom of the screen to improve reachability.
This redesign was initially introduced on Android and is now rolling out to Google Maps for iPhone with version 25.10.2.