How to Use Apple Maps: The Basics!

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By Ashleigh Page
June 05, 2025

Apple Maps has come a long way since its introduction, and it's now able to go toe-to-toe with Google Maps. Apple Maps is so reliable now that I've started using Apple Maps as my default navigation app, due to its native integration with the iPhone. Seeing directions on my Lock Screen is so convenient. Here's how to use Apple Maps on your iPhone.

Why You'll Love This Tip

  • Find the fastest route to your destination every time.
  • Get turn-by-turn directions on your Lock Screen.

How to Use Maps on iPhone

System Requirements

This tip was performed on an iPhone 15 Pro running iOS 18.5. Find out how to update to the latest version of iOS.

Apple Maps is super easy to use, but does Apple Maps factor in traffic? It provides directions along the fastest route, and, whenever possible, Apple Maps will suggest alternate routes to help you steer clear of traffic delays. To learn more handy tips about Apple Maps features, consider signing up for our free Tip of the Day. Now, here's how to use Apple Maps for directions:

  1. Open Apple Maps. a screenshot of an iphone home screen with a red box around the apple maps app
  2. Tap the search bar. a screenshot of apple maps on iphone with a red box around the search bar
  3. Enter an address or the name of a location. The top result will usually be the closest to you. a screenshot of apple maps on iphone displaying a list of locations with a red box around a specific location
  4. Tap the blue directions icon. a screenshot of apple maps on iphone displaying location details with a red box around directions button
  5. You can change your method of transportation by tapping one of the icons at the top. a screenshot of apple maps on iphone displaying route details and a red box around the different transportation methods
  6. Tap the Go button once you're settled on your method of transportation. a screenshot of apple maps on iphone displaying route details and a red box around the go button
  7. While navigating, you can tap the bar at the bottom to get extra options. a screenshot of apple maps navigation screen with a red box around the bottom navigation bar
  8. You can tap the phone icon to call the location you are navigating to. You can also add a stop, share your ETA, report an incident (such as a car accident), or adjust the voice volume. a screenshot of apple maps navigation screen displaying route options with a red box around phone icon, add stop, share eta, report incident, and voice volume buttons
  9. Tap End Route to stop navigation. a screenshot of apple maps navigation screen displaying route options with a red box around end route button

That's how to use Apple Maps on the iPhone! Now, how do you avoid highways on Apple Maps? We have a tip to help you arrive safely!

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written by

Ashleigh Page

Ashleigh Page is an Associate Editor for iPhone Life. A longtime Apple enthusiast with a Bachelor's in English and Computer Science and three years of experience writing about tech, Ashleigh has written and tested hundreds of articles about devices and features within Apple's ecosystem. She specializes in iPhone, iPad, AirPods, and Mac content and has authored a 60-page in-depth guide about the Apple Maps app. Based in North Carolina, Ashleigh is often crafting whimsical (and sometimes nonsensical) short stories and hiking when she's not working.
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