iPhone (iOS) · Apps
Adjust Navigation Voice, Units, and Preferences
Maps settings let you set preferred navigation voice volume, driving versus walking as your default routing mode, distance units, and how much location data is used for traffic and directions.
How to open Maps Settings
- Open Settings → Maps
- Tap Driving & Navigation to set routing and voice preferences
- Choose Miles or Kilometers under Distances
- Tap Extensions to enable third-party integrations
- Open Maps to confirm the new preferences are applied
What you should know
- Driving & Navigation options include preferred routing type (driving, walking, transit, or cycling)
- Navigation Voice Volume can be set independently of the ringer and media volume
- Distances can display in miles or kilometers regardless of region
- Extensions let ride-share and food delivery apps surface actions directly within Maps
Why it matters
Maps has become a default utility for daily commuting, travel, and finding nearby places, so its settings quietly shape a lot of time spent in the car or on foot. Getting navigation volume and preferred transportation mode right avoids the friction of manually adjusting settings on every trip. Extensions integration also means Maps can act as a hub for third-party services like ride-hailing, reducing the need to jump between separate apps mid-errand.
Best practices
- Set your default routing preference (driving vs. transit) to match your most common commute
- Lower navigation voice volume relative to media if you often listen to music or podcasts while driving
- Enable relevant ride-share or delivery extensions you actually use to avoid app clutter
- Switch distance units to match the country you're traveling in for clearer trip planning
Common problems and fixes
- Navigation voice is too loud or too quiet relative to music
- Adjust Navigation Voice Volume separately under Settings > Maps > Driving & Navigation
- Maps defaults to the wrong transportation mode
- Set a Preferred Routing Type under Settings > Maps > Driving & Navigation
- A ride-share extension isn't appearing
- Confirm the third-party app is installed and its extension is enabled under Settings > Maps > Extensions
Tips and tricks
- Download offline maps for regions with unreliable connectivity before traveling
- Use Maps extensions to book a ride or order food without leaving the app
Frequently asked questions
Can Maps show traffic-based rerouting automatically?
Yes, when Traffic and Alternate Routes are enabled, Maps can suggest a faster route mid-trip.
Does Maps work without a data connection?
Downloaded offline maps can support basic navigation without a live connection.
Can I change the app used for directions from other apps?
The Default Navigation App under Settings can be set to Maps or a supported third-party app.
Related settings
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- Find MyFind My helps you locate a lost or stolen iPhone on a map, remotely play a sound, mark it as lost, or erase it, and it can also share your location with family members or locate AirTags and other Apple accessories.
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