Google Maps tests the use of some colors that copy Apple Maps

2 min readUpdated May 27, 2025Sep 1, 20236:27 AM

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While Google Maps is still considered the top mapping and navigation app for mobile devices, Apple Maps has made an incredible turnaround after the fiasco that was the original launch of the service back in 2012 with the release of iOS 6. Apple was forced to start from scratch to revise the app and has done a pretty decent job of doing so, And now Google appears to be testing some new color options for Google Maps that match some of the shades used by Apple Maps.

Google Maps is testing a lighter blue color to represent water and any difference to the hue used by Apple is very minor. On the other hand, Google appears to be moving away from Apple by using a darker green color to indicate areas like parks and forests. Previously, Google and Apple both used a lighter shade of green to represent such areas.

But Google Maps is also testing the use of gray, instead of white, to signify a road, and dark gray to represent a highway. All of these color changes being tested bring Google Maps in line with Apple Maps’ color scheme. And if you use Dark theme on both apps, Google Maps’ implementation of it remains darker than Apple Maps. Dark theme on the mapping apps is an acquired taste with some drivers complaining that it is harder to view the maps on the apps using a darker background

You can go into the settings for both apps and keep them in Light mode if that is what you prefer. Additionally, Google Maps is also giving the driving directions at the top of the screen a darker green background color although you will have to use it under real-world conditions to see what impact the darker color has on you.

The updated version of Google Maps is reportedly rolling out today to Android users although it has yet to hit my Pixel 6 Pro running Android 14 beta 5.2.

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What this means

Google's decision to emulate Apple Maps' color palette for water and roads, while deviating on green areas, appears to be a direct competitive response. This initiative aims to capitalise on the positive user reception Apple Maps has cultivated since its rocky 2012 launch, addressing aesthetic preferences that influence navigation app stickiness. Historically, Google has partnered with Apple, as seen with the Gemini AI collaboration, but this design alignment suggests a competitive refinement rather than direct cooperation. The immediate risk for Google is alienating long-term users accustomed to the previous interface, though the optional Light mode mitigates this. The industry should now watch for the specific user retention rates following this visual overhaul.

Minjun Park · Retail News Asia newsroom

Questions & Answers

What specific colour changes is Google Maps currently testing?

Google Maps is testing a lighter blue for water, a darker green for parks and forests, and grey for roads. It is also testing dark grey to represent highways, bringing its scheme closer to Apple Maps.

How do the new Google Maps colours compare to those used by Apple Maps?

The lighter blue for water is very similar to Apple's hue. While Google is using a darker green for natural areas, Apple previously used a lighter shade, as did Google. The new grey roads also align with Apple's scheme.

Are there any concerns about the 'Dark theme' implementation on these mapping apps?

Yes, some drivers have complained that using a darker background makes the maps harder to view. Both apps allow users to switch to 'Light mode' in their settings if preferred.

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