Google Maps for iPhone Can Now Identify Locations from Screenshots

Google Maps has introduced a new intelligent feature exclusively for iPhone users that automatically detects locations in screenshots. This new tool aims to save users time by minimizing the need to manually enter place names or addresses. With this addition, Google Maps is becoming even more seamless and intuitive for Apple users.

How the Screenshot Detection Feature Works on iPhone

The latest version of Google Maps for iOS introduces a time-saving feature that scans your photo gallery for screenshots containing location names or addresses. When such images are identified, the app suggests saving these locations to a private list called “Screenshots.”

This means users no longer have to toggle between the gallery and the app to search for a place manually—they can simply access saved suggestions directly within Google Maps.

Steps to Use the Screenshot Detection Feature

To start using this feature on your iPhone, follow these simple steps:

1. Update your Google Maps app to the latest version from the App Store.

2. Open the app and tap on the “You” tab located at the bottom navigation bar.

3. A new private list named “Screenshots” will appear.

4. Google will begin scanning your saved photos for screenshots that contain identifiable place names or addresses.

5. You will see suggestions and can choose to “Save” or “Don’t Save” those places based on your preferences.

This feature is particularly useful if you often come across interesting locations on social media or while browsing the web and take a screenshot to revisit them later.

Enable Auto-Scan for Continuous Updates

To streamline the experience further, users can enable auto-scan by granting Google Maps access to their entire photo library. Once turned on, the app will automatically scan new screenshots and add detected locations to the “Screenshots” list.

However, this feature is optional and users have complete control over it. If you’re privacy-conscious or only want to scan select images, you can disable auto-scanning and instead manually select which screenshots to scan.

You’ll find a toggle button within the app settings to turn auto-scan on or off at any time, giving you flexibility and control over your gallery access.

Feature Currently Exclusive to iPhone Users

As of now, the screenshot detection feature is only available for iOS users, with Google Maps gradually rolling it out across iPhones. Android users will have to wait a little longer. Google has confirmed that this functionality will be made available for Android in upcoming updates, but no specific release timeline has been announced.

Why This Feature Matters

The screenshot-based location detection feature reflects Google’s continued effort to make Maps smarter and more user-friendly. It addresses a common user habit—taking screenshots of locations they come across online—and turns it into a seamless way to plan visits and trips.

By recognizing addresses or place names in screenshots and prompting users to save them within Maps, this feature bridges the gap between passive browsing and active navigation planning.

Google Maps Screenshot Feature at a Glance