Switch Google Maps voice language easily: You can change the navigation or voice search language directly from the Google Maps app settings on iPhone or Android.
Update spoken directions via device settings: Adjust the turn-by-turn navigation voice by changing your device’s language settings or the in-app language preference.
Fix issues when the voice won’t change: Update Google Maps, restart your phone, reinstall the app, or review Google account language settings if the voice fails to update.
Why changing the voice matters: A different voice can improve pronunciation accuracy, align with your search language, and make directions easier to follow.
Keep Google Maps updated for best results: Ensure the app is current to access the latest voice options and smoother language switching.
By default, Google Maps on uses a U.S. English voice for navigation and search. But if you prefer hearing directions or using voice search in another language, like Spanish, Hindi, or French, you can easily change it in just a few taps.
This quick guide will show you how to change the Google Maps voice on your iPhone or android in 2025, plus what to do if the new voice doesn’t apply right away.
How to Change the Google Maps Voice Language on iPhone or Android
Follow these steps to switch the voice search or navigation language in Google Maps:
Open the Google Maps app on your iPhone or android.
Tap your profile picture at the top right of the screen.
Select Settings from the menu.
Tap Voice Search.
Choose your preferred language from the list like English (Australia) or Français (Canada).
Once you select a new voice language, Google Maps will use it for voice commands and search queries.
How to Change the Google Maps Navigation Voice (Spoken Directions)
The above steps change the voice search language, not the Google Maps navigation voice which you hear during turn-by-turn directions. Earlier you can switch it through the app’s settings but now it’s available in iPhone or android settings.
Go to Settings, scroll down, and tap Apps.
Select Google Maps and tap Language.
Choose your preferred language.
Reopen Google Maps and the interface will change to your selected language. Start a navigation and listen to spoken directions in that language while driving.
Troubleshooting: Voice Language Not Changing?
If Google Maps still uses the old voice, try these quick fixes:
Reinstall Google Maps if the voice or language doesn’t refresh.
Why Change the Google Maps Voice?
Changing the Google Maps voice can make your navigation experience more comfortable and personal.
Better Comprehension and Clarity: If English isn’t your first language, hearing directions in your native tongue can significantly reduce confusion on the road.
Consistency with Voice Search: When you set the same voice language for both navigation and voice search, Google Maps recognizes your commands more accurately.
Localized Pronunciations: Choosing a right accent helps ensure that street names and landmarks are spoken correctly. It’s beneficial when traveling in multilingual regions.
Accessibility and Inclusivity: For users with visual impairments or reading difficulties, the right voice and accent can make instructions easy to follow.
Wrapping Up
The option to change the default voice search language is very helpful for non-English speakers. It allows searching any location in your preferred language quickly and accurately. We hope you were able to get it sorted out on your iPhone or android.
Still facing issues with Google Maps? Drop your question in the comments, and we’ll help you resolve it quickly.
FAQs
Can I change the Google Maps navigation voice accent?
Yes! Google Maps allows you to switch between multiple accents and regional voices for supported languages. For example, you can choose between English (US), English (UK), or English (Australia) in Settings → Apps → Google Maps → Language.
Does changing the Google Maps voice also change Siri’s voice?
No. Changing the voice in Google Maps doesn’t affect Siri’s voice or your iPhone’s system voice. Siri and Google Maps use separate voice engines and settings.
Marcus Mears III is a lifelong technology enthusiast with half a decade of experience developing prose that keeps readers in the know. With hundreds of reviews, buying guides, and how-to explainers across a number of tech and lifestyle publications like How-To Geek, MakeUseOf, and iGeeksBlog, Mears’ work helps readers around the globe learn to make the most of their devices and software. He uses a 2016 MacBook Pro as his daily driver laptop and a self-built Windows PC for gaming and productivity.