How to turn off the annoying 3D buildings view in Google Maps

If you’re like me, you use Google Maps as your sat nav when driving to unfamiliar places, but a recent change means the interface is suddenly a distracting app to use. 

Don’t worry though, because I can show you how to turn off the 3D buildings view that Google has forced upon us all. You’ll be back to normal in no time if you follow these simple steps on your phone: 

1. Open Google Maps and tap your profile picture at the end of the search bar 

2. Tap on ‘Settings’ with a cog wheel icon next to it 

3. Scroll down and tap on ‘Navigation settings’ 

4. Scroll down and toggle ‘Show 3D buildings’ under the ‘Map display’ section 

And there you have it; the map will be a much simpler and more pleasant experience when you are driving. See the screenshots below to follow the method above.

I’ve used an Android phone for this guide, but the method should be similar on tablets, iPhone and Android Auto.  

In fact, on Android Auto, it’s even quicker by tapping the settings cog wheel and toggling the 3D Buildings option to off.