Can You Rotate Google Maps on Desktop? [Quick Guide]

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Updated onAugust 8, 2024

updated onAugust 8, 2024

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Can you rotate Google Maps on the desktop? Yes, you can rotate Google Maps on your desktop using the satellite view, but the default mode has no such option. It’s useful for getting a different view of a location or aligning the map with a specific direction of travel.

While Google Maps on mobile devices easily supports rotation, many desktop users wonder if they can achieve the same flexibility.

I’ll show you how to do it below!

How To Rotate Google Maps on Desktop

Here are two methods you can try:

Using Satellite View

That’s it! You can better view your map by rotating it to any angle.

Sometimes, you can select the satellite view and tick the globe view box, but you won’t see the compass on the right side of the screen. In that case, you’ll need toenable hardware acceleration.

Here’s what to do:

The compass icon should appear now andGoogle Maps should workas expected.

Using an Android Emulator

You can install an Android emulator likeBluestackson your desktop and thendownload the mobile version.This allows you to access features that might not be available on the desktop version, such as rotating the map on the default view. However,you must sign in with your Google Accountto access the Play Store through Bluestacks.

Still, you might be unable to replicate the touchscreen commands perfectly with a mouse. This can make navigation and other touch-based interactions a bit trickier.

So, can you rotate Google Maps on your desktop? Luckily, yes. You can use thesatellite viewand turn on hardware acceleration if you don’t see the compass. Another option is to get an Android emulator, but it might be tricky to navigate with a mouse.

Keep in mind that this service has its share of issues, and we already wrote what to do ifGoogle Maps location is wrong on your PC, so you might want to check it out.

Alternatively, you can check out other,similar servicesorWindows Mapsfor more rotation options. You can alsochange the languageandenable dark mode.

Can You Rotate Google Maps on Desktop? [Quick Guide]#

How To Rotate Google Maps on Desktop#

Using Satellite View#

Using an Android Emulator#

Can You Rotate Google Maps on Desktop? [Quick Guide]

How To Rotate Google Maps on Desktop

Using Satellite View

Using an Android Emulator