Google Maps just got a little flashier. The world’s most popular navigation app, with nearly 70% market share in the U.S., is now borrowing some fun tricks from its sibling Waze.
While Waze has long been known for its playful touches-like celebrity voices giving directions or quirky vehicle icons-Google Maps has traditionally kept things straightforward and businesslike.
That’s starting to change. Google Maps users on both iOS and Android can now swap out the standard navigation arrow for a custom icon. And in its first big brand partnership, Google is offering a classic Ford Mustang owned by singer-songwriter Benson Boone as a new vehicle option. To enable it, just start navigation, tap the current arrow or car icon, and swipe until Boone’s Mustang shows up. If you’re unsure, captions help identify the vehicle.
This move is part of Google’s effort to bring some of Waze’s lighthearted fun into Maps without losing its polished feel. Beyond Boone’s Mustang, users can still pick between sedans, SUVs, or pickups-and even change colors for a more personal touch. One catch: Benson’s Mustang isn’t available to Canadian users.
On desktop, the crossover continues-Pegman, Google Maps’ little yellow helper, now sports Benson Boone’s stage outfit if you’re checking out directions to venues on his upcoming U.S. tour, such as Madison Square Garden.
So while Google Maps remains the serious go-to for daily navigation, it’s slowly learning how to smile-and maybe even sing along with you on the road.