How do I get Google Maps to default to satellite view?

Okay, so, you know how annoying it is when you open Google Maps and it’s not in satellite view? Like, seriously, who wants to look at a flat, lifeless map?! I used to feel the same way. It was driving me nuts! Every single time, I had to click that little button to switch it over. What a hassle, right?

Then, hallelujah! I stumbled upon this magical setting. I can’t even remember exactly how I found it – probably clicking around randomly, as I do – but it was life-changing. You go to your profile (that little circle thing, usually top right?), then tap “Settings.” And then…scroll, scroll, scroll… it’s in there somewhere. A toggle that says something like “Start Maps in Satellite View.” Click it. Done!

Seriously, it’s like the heavens opened and angels sang. Okay, maybe not that dramatic, but I was pretty darn happy. I felt like such a genius! It’s the little things, you know? Now, every time I open Maps, BAM! Beautiful satellite imagery. Like, I can practically see my neighbor’s dog sunbathing on their patio. (Just kidding… mostly). It’s so much easier to get a feel for a place when you can see the actual landscape. Remember that time we got lost trying to find that weird little antique shop? If we’d had satellite view, we totally would have seen it tucked away behind those trees. Anyway, just wanted to share this little tip – hopefully, it saves someone else from the same map-related frustration I used to endure!