Do you spend a significant portion of your day behind the wheel? If so, you likely rely on Google Maps for its industry-leading navigation. However, switching between your GPS and your music app while driving isn't just a hassle; it's a safety risk. To solve this, Google introduced "Commuter-focused" features that integrate your favorite streaming services, including Apple Music, directly into the navigation interface.
It allows you to control Apple Music playback on Google Maps without needing to leave the navigation screen. But how? In this guide, we'll show you how to link Apple Music to Google Maps on both iPhone and Android, ensuring your focus stays on the road.
Part 1. How to Add Apple Music to Google Maps on iPhone
For iOS users, the integration between Google Maps and Apple Music is generally stable and reliable. Once enabled, a media player widget will appear at the bottom of your Google Maps screen whenever you start turn-by-turn navigation. Before you begin, ensure you have the latest version of both Google Maps and Apple Music installed on your device. Follow these instructions to activate the music playback controls:
Step 1. Open the Google Maps app on your iPhone and tap your 'profile' picture in the top right corner of the screen.
Step 2. Select 'Settings' from the menu options. Scroll down and tap on 'Navigation'> 'Music playback controls'. You will see a list of available music apps installed on your phone.
Step 3. Choose 'Apple Music' from the list. A system prompt will appear asking for permission to access your media library. Tap 'OK' to finalize the connection.
Step 4. Once set up, the next time you start driving, you will see the Apple Music logo at the bottom of the Google Maps navigation screen. Tapping it expands the controls, allowing you to manage your tunes safely.
Note:
Some iOS users report a minor visual bug where album artwork may not load in the mini-player, showing a grey placeholder instead. Rest assured, the playback functionality (play/pause/skip) still works perfectly.
Part 2. How to Use Apple Music with Google Maps on Android
The experience on Android is slightly more complex. While Google Maps supports media playback controls for apps like Spotify and YouTube Music natively, support for Apple Music on Android has been inconsistent in recent updates.
Here is how to check if the native integration is available for your specific device, followed by the most reliable workaround if it isn't.
Step 1. First, check if your version of Google Maps recognizes the installed Apple Music app.
Step 2. Open Google Maps on your Android device and tap your 'profile' picture.
Step 3. Go to 'Settings' and then select 'Navigation' settings. Ensure the toggle for Show media playback controls is turned 'On'.
Step 4. If Apple Music appears in the default media app list, select it. Now, when you navigate, your Apple Music playback controls will appear at the bottom of the screen.
Part 3. How to Use Apple Music in Google Maps via Google Assistant
If you do not see Apple Music listed on Google Maps, do not worry, your phone is not broken. This is a common limitation on specific Android builds. In this case, use the voice command method below, which is often safer than on-screen controls anyway. This allows you to control Apple Music hands-free without leaving the map. Here is how to control Apple Music while navigating by linking it to Google Assistant.
Step 1. Open the Google app (not Chrome or Maps) and tap your 'profile' picture.
Step 2. Go to 'Settings', then tap 'Google Assistant'.
Step 3. Scroll down and tap on 'Music'. Under "Your music services," select 'Apple Music' and sign in with your Apple ID if prompted.
Step 4. Now, while navigating in Google Maps, you can simply say, "Hey Google, play my driving playlist on Apple Music." Google Maps will lower the navigation volume to listen to your command and then execute it immediately.
Part 4. Top Apple Music Playlists for Your Next Drive
Need the perfect soundtrack for your trip? Here are three curated Apple Music playlist styles that pair perfectly with Google Maps:
| Playlist Style | Best For... | Featured Artists |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Road Trip | High-energy sing-alongs for long hauls. | Queen, Fleetwood Mac, The Killers |
| Country Roads | Relaxed, scenic drives through the countryside. | Taylor Swift, Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton |
| Focus & Flow | Heavy traffic or high-stress city commuting. | Lo-fi beats or Classical essentials |
If you are worried about data usage, you can use DRmare Apple Music Converter to download these Apple Music playlists to local MP3, M4A, FLAC, WAV, and more. After that, you can add these files to a USB flash drive and play Apple Music in your car offline without using mobile data.
Part 5. FAQs about Using Apple Music and Google Maps
What Are the Key Google Maps Features for the Modern Commuter?
Google Maps has evolved from a simple map into a comprehensive driving assistant. Here are the latest features designed to streamline your drive:
- The Commute Tab: This dedicated tab provides real-time traffic updates and transit data. By setting up your home and work addresses, Google Maps will notify you of the best time to leave and help you avoid unexpected jams.
- In-App Media Controls: This is the game-changer. You can now control Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube Music directly within the Google Maps interface. No more app-switching at 65 mph.
- Real-Time Journey Sharing: Let loved ones track your progress. By tapping the "Share trip progress" button, you can send your live ETA and location to your contacts until you arrive safely.
- EV Charging Station Finder: Driving an electric vehicle? Simply search "EV charging" to see the nearest compatible plugs, their charging speeds, and real-time availability.
Can I use Google Maps music controls with Apple CarPlay?
Yes. However, CarPlay usually provides its own interface for split-screen navigation and music. These in-app settings are most useful when using your phone in a dashboard mount.
Why is Apple Music not showing up in Google Maps settings?
Ensure you are signed into the Apple Music app on your device first. If it still doesn't appear, try restarting your phone or checking for a Google Maps app update in the App Store/Play Store.
Is it possible to listen to Apple Music offline in Google Maps?
Yes, as long as the songs are downloaded to your library. If you often drive through areas with poor cell service, you can download Apple Music on your device in advance.
How to fix Apple Music and Google Maps not working?
Here are the most common fixes:
-
Check Your Subscription: This integration requires an active Apple Music subscription. It generally does not work with local files if the subscription has lapsed.
-
Update Both Apps: Outdated versions of Google Maps often break third-party integrations. Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and ensure both Maps and Apple Music are updated to the latest version.
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Re-Verify Permissions: On iPhone, go to 'Settings' > 'Privacy' > 'Media & Apple Music' and ensure Google Maps is toggled 'ON'. If this is off, Maps cannot "see" your music app.
Part 6. In Conclusion
Integrating Apple Music with Google Maps is more than just a tech tweak; it's the simplest way to make your daily commute both safer and more enjoyable. By merging your navigation and entertainment into a single, streamlined dashboard, you eliminate the dangerous habit of "app-switching" while in motion. Give this feature a try on your next trip! It only takes a minute to set up, but it will fundamentally change how you interact with your phone while driving. Let the music play, keep your eyes on the road, and enjoy the ride.
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