Send Maps Location Desktop to Device: How-To
If you search a place on Google Maps on your desktop and want it on your phone, you can send it directly to your device in a few clicks. This article explains the built-in “Send to device” feature, how to use it, what to do when it fails, and how it compares to other methods like sharing links or using saved places.
What Is the Send to Device Feature?
Google Maps has a feature that lets you push a location, route, or map from your desktop browser to your Android phone, iPhone, or tablet. It appears as a small “Send to device” button in the directions panel or in the location card. The feature relies on you being signed into the same Google account on both devices and having the Google Maps app installed on the mobile device.
It works for a specific place (like a restaurant), a set of driving directions, or a custom map you created. The destination arrives as a notification in the Google Maps app on your phone, and tapping it opens the place or starts navigation.
How to Send a Location from Desktop to Your Phone
Here are the steps for sending a place or a route from a desktop browser to a mobile device:
- Open Google Maps in your desktop browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari).
- Search for the place you want, or get directions by clicking the blue “Directions” button.
- In the left panel, look for the “Send to device” button. It looks like a small phone with an arrow. It is usually near the place name or next to the route options.
- Click the button. A list of your devices appears (any device where you are signed in to the same Google account and have the Maps app installed).
- Select the device you want to send to. A confirmation appears on the desktop, and a notification pops up on your phone.
If you do not see the button, you may need to click the three-dot menu next to the place name or route. On some layouts, it is under “Share” or “Send to device.”
What Arrives on Your Phone?
When you send a location, your phone receives a notification from the Google Maps app. Tapping it opens the place card or starts turn-by-turn navigation, depending on what you sent.
- For a place: The place card opens with details, reviews, and a “Directions” button.
- For directions: The route opens in navigation mode, ready to start.
- For a custom map: The map opens in the Maps app with your layers.
If you sent directions, the route is calculated on your phone using your current location as the starting point. If you specified a different starting point on desktop, that is preserved.
Requirements and Limitations
The feature is not magic—it needs a few conditions to work:
- You must be signed in to the same Google account on both the desktop and the phone.
- The Google Maps app must be installed on the phone, and you must be signed in there.
- Both devices need an internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular).
- The feature works for places, routes, and custom maps, but not for Street View or 3D views.
It also only works with Google Maps, not Apple Maps or other navigation apps. If you use an iPhone, the notification arrives in the Google Maps app, not in Apple Maps.
Common Problems and Fixes
If the “Send to device” button does not appear or the notification never arrives, try these steps:
- Check your sign-in: Make sure you are using the same Google account on both devices. Open the Google Maps app on your phone, tap your profile picture, and verify the email.
- Update the app: An outdated Google Maps app may not support the feature. Update it from the App Store or Google Play.
- Check notifications: On Android, ensure Google Maps has notification permission. On iPhone, go to Settings > Notifications > Google Maps and allow notifications.
- Refresh the page: Sometimes the button appears only after you reload the Maps page.
- Use the share link instead: If the button is missing, click “Share” and copy the link, then send it to yourself (e.g., via email or messaging) and open it on your phone.
If you are using a work or school Google account, some admins disable the feature. In that case, use a personal Google account or share a link.
Alternatives: Share Link, Saved Places, and QR Codes
If “Send to device” is not working or you prefer another method, here are three reliable alternatives:
- Share link: Click the “Share” button on the place card, copy the link, and paste it into an email, message, or note. Open it on your phone. This works with any account and any device.
- Saved places: Save the place to a list (e.g., “Favorites”) on desktop. It appears in the “Saved” tab in the mobile app. This is useful for planning multiple stops.
- QR code: Some place cards have a QR code icon. Scan it with your phone camera to open the place directly.
These methods do not require the same account, but they do require you to be signed in to Google Maps on the phone to open a link (or you can open it in a browser).
Privacy and Account Considerations
When you use “Send to device,” Google links the action to your account. That means the feature works only if you are signed in, and it does not share your location with anyone else. The notification is sent to your device only.
If you are concerned about privacy, note that Google may use your Maps activity to personalize ads, but the “Send to device” action itself is not a separate data collection event. You can review your activity in your Google Account settings.
For shared computers, sign out of your Google account after using Maps to avoid sending locations to someone else’s device.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I send a location from my phone to my desktop?
Yes, the reverse works too. On the Google Maps app, tap the place, then tap the share icon and choose “Send to your devices.” It will appear on your desktop browser if you are signed in.
Does this work with Apple Maps?
No, the “Send to device” feature is exclusive to Google Maps. Apple Maps has a similar feature called “Continuity” that works between Apple devices, but it is not compatible with Google Maps.
Why is the button missing on my desktop?
It may be hidden under the three-dot menu, or you may not be signed in. Also, the feature is not available for every place (e.g., some transit routes). Try refreshing or using a different browser.
Can I send a route with multiple stops?
Yes, if you add multiple destinations on desktop, the route is sent to your phone with all stops. However, the mobile app may recalculate the route based on traffic.
Is there a way to send a location without the app?
Yes, you can share a link via email or SMS. The recipient can open it in a browser or the app. This works even if they do not have the Google Maps app installed.
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