Garmin & Google: Navigation on your wrist - smartwatch with turn-by-turn directions
Marc Strucken
· 12.07.2025
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Garmin is upgrading the navigation of its smartwatches and integrating the Google Maps app into the Connect IQ Store. From now on, owners of compatible models from the Series Venu, Forerunner, Vivoactive and Fenix download the free app and read the familiar turn-by-turn directions from Google Maps directly on your wrist. This innovation promises a pretty practical link between Google's map technology and Garmin's wearables.
How the integration of Google Maps works
There is still a small catch, so much in advance: using the Google Maps app on a Garmin smartwatch requires a paired Android smartphone, Apple phones are currently excluded.
Once you have entered your destination in the Google Maps app on your smartphone, the navigation instructions are transferred directly to the watch. This allows you to follow the route on your bike or on foot without having to clamp your smartphone to the handlebars or constantly take it out of your pocket. The watch informs you of every upcoming change of direction, and pedestrians are also alerted to turns by vibrations.
Detailed navigation information on your wrist
The Google Maps app on the Garmin smartwatch offers more than just simple directions. If you like, you can have the next three turns shown on the watch display. This function is particularly useful in complex urban environments or on unfamiliar routes, as it enables anticipatory navigation and minimises the risk of missing an important turn.
Parallel activity recording
A particular advantage of Google Maps integration on a Garmin wearable is the ability to record activity at the same time. Athletes can use the navigation support during their training session without having to forego the recording of important performance data. The Garmin smartwatch continues to record information such as distance travelled, heart rate and other relevant metrics, while also displaying turn-by-turn directions. A short bike ride in an unfamiliar city - no longer a problem.
Data synchronisation and compatibility
After completing an activity, the recorded data can be synchronised with other Android health and fitness apps via Garmin Connect. This function uses Health Connect as an interface and makes it possible to use and analyse training data in various fitness apps.
Marc Strucken
Editor
