How to Find North on Google Maps on Phone and Desktop

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Often, we all use Google Maps or Google Earth for GPS navigation on our phones or PCs. But sometimes when we are on a new route or exploring a place, we can’t figure out which direction the North Pole is. If you also have the same question in your mind, then this article is for you.

In this article I have explained in detail how you can locate North Point on Google Maps on a mobile phone, desktop, or MacBook. If you get lost in an unknown place or on an unfamiliar path, knowing the north direction can help you reach a safe place.

Table of Contents

How to Find North on Google Maps on Phone and Desktop

#1. On Android and iPhone

Both Android and iOS devices support Google Maps. However, Google Maps comes pre-installed on Android phones, while on iPhones, you need to download it from the Apple App Store.

Whether you’re an Android user or an iPhone user, viewing the north side on the Google Maps app is very easy. Just follow the steps mentioned below.

To check north direction on google maps on Android or iPhone:

Open Google Maps App on Your Phone.
Tap on Location Button at Bottom Right Side.
This will rotate the map based on your phone's orientation.
Tap on the Compass Icon Under the Layers Button.
Now, You Can See N with Red Arrow.
Here, N 🔺 stands for the north direction.

Also read: How to Stop Google Maps from Starting Maps in Satellite View

#2. On PC or Mac

Whether you’re using a computer, laptop, or MacBook, finding the magnetic north direction on Google Maps is quite simple. However, the steps may be slightly different on a desktop compared to a phone. But there’s no need to worry. Below, I’ve mentioned a step-by-step guide with pictures.

To see the north arrow on Google Maps on desktop:

Go to https://www.google.com/maps on Any Desktop Browser.
You can try any browser like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera, Brave, Safari, etc.
Search for a Specific Location.
Drag and Drop the Orange Human Icon to the Map.
This will switch your map to the Street View mode.
Note: Street View isn't available everywhere; hold and drag the orange person on the map to see highlighted blue roads (where you can use it).
Next, Click on Compass Icon at Bottom Right Side.
Now, The Red Arrow in the Compass will Rotate Upwards; This Red Arrow Indicates the North Direction.

That’s all! You’re done…

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FAQs

Q 1. How to get compass on Google Maps?

Answer – By default, the Google Maps app or website does not show the compass icon. To make the compass appear on Google Maps on your phone, open the app and tap the location button at the bottom right side. To bring up the Google Maps compass on a desktop, first switch Google Maps to street view, and then the compass option will automatically appear.

Q 2. Can I use Google Maps to find north without internet?

Answer – Yes! You can use Google Maps to find north even without an internet connection, provided you have already downloaded the map of the relevant area and your device supports a compass.

I hope you found this article quite helpful and learned how to figure out north on Google Maps. If you have any problem or question related to Google Maps, feel free to ask by commenting below. Do share this article.