How to choose a different route on iPhone Maps?

Ditch the Default: Choosing a Different Route on iPhone Maps

We’ve all been there. You plug an address into Apple Maps, eagerly anticipating a smooth journey, only to find yourself staring at a route that feels… off. Maybe it takes you through congested city streets, adds unnecessary mileage, or simply doesn’t vibe with your preferred driving style. Fortunately, Apple Maps isn’t a one-route wonder. Before you even start navigating, it offers you the flexibility to explore and choose the path that best suits you.

This article will guide you through the simple steps of choosing a different route on Apple Maps before you hit the road, empowering you to take control of your journey and potentially save time, stress, and even gas.

The Secret’s in the Pre-Navigation View

The key to customizing your route lies in examining the map before you tap that “Go” button. Here’s how:

1. Enter Your Destination: Open Apple Maps and enter the address or name of your destination in the search bar.

2. Initiate Route Planning: Tap the “Directions” button. Apple Maps will quickly calculate and display the default route.

3. Observe the Map: This is where the magic happens. Instead of immediately starting navigation, take a close look at the map. You’ll likely see alternative routes presented as slightly thinner, less emphasized lines. These represent the different paths Apple Maps has calculated.

4. Explore Your Options (Method 1: Tapping on the Map):

   • Tap an Alternate Route Line: Directly tap on one of the alternate route lines displayed on the map. Apple Maps will immediately highlight that route, displaying its estimated travel time and distance in the route card at the bottom of the screen.
   • Repeat for Other Routes: Continue tapping on different route lines until you find one that appeals to you.

5. Explore Your Options (Method 2: The Route Card):

   • Scroll Through Route Summaries: The route card at the bottom of the screen provides summaries of the available routes, including estimated travel time and distance.
   • Look for “Go” Buttons: Next to each route description in the card, you’ll see a “Go” button.

6. Choose Your Route: Once you’ve found the perfect path, either:

   • Tap the Highlighted Route on the Map: If you’ve chosen a route by tapping its line on the map, the route will already be highlighted.
   • Tap “Go” in the Route Card: If you prefer the route described in the route card, tap the “Go” button beside it.

7. Start Navigating: After selecting your preferred route using either method, Apple Maps will begin turn-by-turn navigation.

Why Bother with Alternative Routes?

Taking the time to explore different route options can offer numerous benefits:

• Avoiding Traffic: Apple Maps calculates routes based on real-time traffic data. An alternate route might bypass a congested area, saving you precious time.
• Shorter Distance: Sometimes, the default route isn’t the most direct. An alternative might be a shorter overall distance, saving you gas.
• Preference for Certain Roads: You might prefer highways to surface streets (or vice versa). Examining the routes allows you to choose the option that aligns with your preferences.
• Scenic Drives: If you’re not in a rush, exploring alternate routes can lead you down more scenic paths, making your journey more enjoyable.

In conclusion, don’t blindly accept the default route provided by Apple Maps. Take a moment to explore the available options before you start navigating. By tapping on alternate routes or reviewing the route card, you can find a path that’s faster, shorter, more enjoyable, and perfectly tailored to your needs. Take control of your journey and make Apple Maps work for you!