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Most iPhone users have at least one maps app that they rely on to take them from Point A to Point B. A really good one will detect traffic patterns before you head out and suggest alternate routes to get you there faster. And, in an ideal world, your maps app won’t be a total drain on your phone and battery and will simply do its job without being super taxing on your device.
But, of course, that isn’t the case with all maps apps and one of the most popular options isn’t the best one, according to tech experts. This is the one maps app that you need to delete from your iPhone immediately—it’s ruining the battery.
Everyone you know - and seemingly everyone on Earth - uses Google Maps often, according to Cybersecurity Analyst Eric Florence at Security Tech. “Indeed, any time you go on a trip with a friend or loved one, you can bet that someone will bring their phone up and look to Google Maps for help,” Florence says. “However, did you know that it is one of the biggest battery drains around? It's true, it's a surefire way to dwindle your smartphone battery down to nothing in no time at all.”
Google Maps is so draining, in fact, that Florence says it’s even worse if you are using it on an iPhone. “The iPhone just isn't designed with Google Maps in mind, and vice versa,” Florence says. “Of course a Google-made phone will run Google Maps better. Apple isn't going out of its way to customize their iOS to run Google Maps better. A map app has a lot to do below the surface as it is, from connecting with satellites and constantly updating to talking with a car via Bluetooth.”
Generally speaking, any map app is going to be hard on your battery no matter what, but using one that is not designed for your specific type of phone makes things even worse, according to Florence.
Tim Robertson, Founder of inVPN.com, agrees that Google Maps is the most draining on your iPhone battery. “This app can cause draining of the battery because it uses a large amount of data, processing power, and battery,” Robertson says. “Not only that, but it also grabs business information, looking for your location, and many more. However, I suggest not totally deleting the app but you can simply disable it since it will still be there. You can just turn it on when needed and then just toggle off or disable it if not needed.”
Another good option? Use the standard Apple map app instead.
“This will save strain on your phone and will keep your battery much happier,” Florence says.
