How to use Google Maps without being signed in?

Ugh, Google Maps. I’m always forgetting to sign out, aren’t I? It’s like they’re trying to track my every move! Anyway, so you want to use Google Maps without signing in? Totally get it. Privacy is important, right?

The easiest way I found – and I’ve tried a few things, let me tell you, after that one time I accidentally showed my whole family vacation route to my boss (don’t ask!) – is to go incognito. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver. On the app, you know, the little colorful map icon? Find your profile picture – it’s usually a tiny circle up in the top right corner, I think? – and tap it. Then, look for “Turn on Incognito mode.” It’ll probably be near the bottom. Click it. Boom! You’re good to go. Your searches and all that location stuff won’t be saved to your Google account. It’s like having a secret map, only for your eyes – well, your eyes and Google’s algorithms, obviously, but less of your personal stuff is linked to you. You know what I mean?

I remember once, I needed directions to that weird little antique store downtown. I didn’t want my husband to see I was going, it was a surprise! So incognito mode was perfect, and it worked like a charm, ha! No more weird “oh honey, I see you were near that antique store” comments. Sweet, sweet freedom.