Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

On Google Maps, you can switch to Earth, or Satellite view, to get a more realistic, detailed look at an area, showing things like like buildings, houses, trees, roads, bridges, waters, and others. We’ll show you how to enable it on both desktop and mobile.

To start Google Maps in satellite view on Android, open Google Maps, tap your profile icon, and open Settings. Scroll down and enable the toggle next to "Start Maps in Satellite View." On an iPhone or iPad, click the layers button, then select "Satellite" from the listed map types.

First thing's first: head to the Google Earth address, whether on mobile or desktop, which is at https://earth.google.com. It will automatically adapt for what you're using to view, but we find the larger real-estate of a big screen most beneficial. To the left of the screen is a dark grey bar, with various tools.

The default map mode shows street names overlaid on a map drawing. To switch to a satellite or terrain map, tap the two overlapping diamonds near the top-right, then tap Satellite or Terrain.

Google Maps makes it extremely easy to find your current location on the map. It even shows the direction you're facing so you know where you're heading. Here's how to see where you are right now in Maps on both desktop and mobile.

Google Maps offers two views for walking navigation: the 2D map and Live View. With Live View, you get directions placed in the real world and on a mini map at the bottom of your screen. You can use Live View navigation during the walking portion of any type of trip.

Google Maps doesn't maintain a live satellite view. You can switch between the default, satellite, and terrain views by selecting the Layers icon in the app, but the satellite view doesn't constantly refresh. Other layers do update, however, so you can keep an eye on traffic, air quality, and other elements as information comes in.

Use your phone to add places, images, and videos to your maps. Then, pick it up from your browser later. Examine the world without leaving your desk. Available on Chrome and other browsers.