Google Maps for Android to Improve Garmin Navigation Integration

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📝 Key Points of This Article

• Analysis of the internal code for the Android “Google Maps” app v26.06.01 update has confirmed that descriptions regarding improved navigation integration with Garmin smartwatches have been added.
• A new “Garmin Watch Settings” menu will appear within the Android Google Maps app itself, allowing navigation to be mirrored on the Garmin smartwatch screen during use.
• This is a highly anticipated new feature for Garmin users.

Garmin smartwatches, a leading brand in GPS/GNSS devices, currently support turn-by-turn navigation notifications from Google Maps, but it appears they will soon also support mirroring of the actual navigation screen.

An analysis of the internal code for the Android “Google Maps” app v26.06.01 update, released on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, has confirmed that descriptions regarding improved navigation linking with Garmin smartwatches have been added.

<string name="MIRRORING_CONFIGURATION_SETTINGS_TITLE">Garmin Watch Settings</string>
<string name="MIRRORING_CONFIGURATION_SUCCESS_TOAST_TEXT">Your Garmin watch is set up for navigation.</string>
<string name="MIRRORING_CONFIGURATION_ALLOW_BUTTON_SUMMARY">Google Maps navigation from your phone will be displayed on your watch, even when signed out.</string>

Currently, the standard way to receive turn-by-turn guidance on a Garmin smartwatch is by pairing it with an Android device and installing the “Google Maps” app from the Garmin “Connect IQ Store.” However, the newly added code reveals that a “Garmin Watch Settings” section will appear within the Android Google Maps app itself, and navigation will be displayed on the Garmin smartwatch screen using a mirroring specification when in use.

While it is not yet clear exactly how detailed this mirrored navigation display will be, it is evident that it will provide a richer display than the current turn-by-turn notifications. This is a long-awaited new feature for Garmin users. That said, compatible models will likely be limited.

“Google Maps” App Link