Google Maps is one of Google's most helpful navigation tools. Many people primarily use the app for navigation, exploration, and discovery. Because of its simple interface and diverse features, Google Maps is often considered a highly-rated app for Android. It's even made its rounds inside Apple's iOS App Store, where many iPhone users pick it over Apple's Apple Maps app.
You can also pull up Google Maps on other platforms. The app is a default map option on most Android smartphones, or you can access it freely on your handy Chromebook. One of Maps' best features is its ability to bookmark an important location by dropping a pin. So, we've included a guide to show users how to drop a pin using Google Maps.
How to drop a pin in Google Maps on your PC or Mac
It's easy to drop a pin when investigating locations on your Windows or Mac computer. To get started, keep reading the steps below.
1. Open the Google Maps website on your computer, where you'll see your approximate location.
2. Log in to your Google account.
3. Click a location on your screen to pin it. Depending on whether it's a location saved to Google Maps, you may have to click the popup at the bottom of your screen to pin it.
4. If you want to drop a pin somewhere that's not on your screen, you have two options:
- Type the address into the address bar, and it's automatically pinned.
- Click and drag the map until you find your desired location, then click the location to pin it.
5. Click the Save button to save the pin.
6. Select which list you would like to add the pin to.
7. To create a new list, click New List.
Next time you're doing some research in Google Maps on your computer, you can drop pins and leave notes for future use.
How to create a custom map and drop a pin in Google My Maps
My Maps is a tool for creating a collaborative map with your family or friends to share locations. Read the steps below to learn more.
1. Open Google My Maps in your browser and click the Create a New Map button in the upper-left corner.
2. Type an address or location name into the search bar to find the location you want to add to the map.
3. Click the Add to map button in the popup to pin the location.
4. If you can't find your exact location through a search, enter the general location in the search bar and find your desired location. Then, click the pin icon under the search bar.
5. Click on any pin to add details, such as photos, notes, or to customize the pin color.
6. If you want to create lists for your pins, click the Add Layer button in the upper-left corner. The buttons to the right of Add Layer allow you to preview your map and share it with friends.
7. To edit a pin, click the corresponding name in the list on the left and modify the details. You can also change how your map renders by expanding the Base map menu and choosing your favorite option.
Play around with these options when using Google My Maps. It can be a helpful tool when collaborating on travel plans with friends and family.
How to drop a pin in the Google Maps app on Android and iOS
Smartphones are possibly the most common way that Google Maps is used. Use these steps to keep track of your trips and locations.
1. Open the Google Maps app.
2. Find the location you want to place a pin by searching for the address in the search bar at the top of the screen or by tapping and dragging the map.
3. Tap and hold the spot you want to drop a pin. The search bar displays the coordinates or address of the pin. The bottom of your screen shows a pop-up menu with a name or description for the location.
4. To adjust the spot where the pin is located, tap and hold the new location where you want the pin to be.
5. Tap the Share icon at the bottom of the screen to share the pin to one of your recent apps or contacts. Click the More button to bring up additional options; you can send the pin using communication apps such as Messages or WhatsApp. Tap the Copy to clipboard icon at the bottom of the Share options screen to copy a URL address for the pin.
6. To save the pin for later, tap the Save icon at the bottom of your screen.
7. Select one of the four default options to save the location to a list: Favorites, Want to Go, Travel Plans, and Starred Places. Alternatively, you can create a new list by tapping New List at the top of the screen. Enter the name and choose who can view and edit the list. Your options are Private, Shared, or Public.
Now you're ready to drop pins anywhere and everywhere. Using this feature in Google Maps on your smartphone can be helpful when you're on the go.
Put a pin in it
Dropping a pin on Google Maps is handy when saving a specific place, so you can use it as an access point to navigate later. You can further categorize your pins to share locations with friends and family. Otherwise, don't hesitate to try this helpful tool the next time you plan a trip!