How To Use The New “Power Saving” Mode On Google Maps

If you own a Pixel 10 series phone – Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL or Pixel 10 Pro Fold – here’s something worth knowing. Google Maps has started offering a new Power Saving mode for driving navigation. This mode strips down the usual Maps view to save battery – especially handy on long trips. The update appears with the recent Feature Drop and is already enabled by default. Also Read: ChatGPT Images Vs Gemini Nano Banana Pro: We Put It To Test And The Results Are Surprising

How Power Saving mode works

When you’re driving and navigating via Google Maps, pressing the power button transforms the regular interface into a low-power layout. The screen switches to a minimal black-and-white view showing only essential info: the next turn, a simplified map layer, and route information at the bottom. Also Read: Gemini 3 Flash Is Here: Google’s Fastest AI Model Yet?

Gone are the extras – no on-screen speed readouts, no floating action buttons (FABs), no left/right menus, no voice-assistant/Gemini button, nothing except what’s strictly necessary for navigation. According to Google, depending on driving conditions and display settings, this mode can deliver up to four extra hours of battery life. Also Read: Chrome Extension With Google “Featured” Badge Secretly Captured ChatGPT And Gemini Chats

Note: This mode works only for driving navigation, and only in portrait orientation. It doesn’t apply when you walk or cycle.

How to turn it on or off

Even though Power Saving mode is on by default, you can control it manually. Here’s how:

• First of all, open Google Maps
• Tap your profile picture, and then go to Settings > Navigation
• Under “Driving options,” toggle Power saving mode on or off
• When you start navigation:
• Now, tap the power button to switch to low-power view
• Press the power button again – or just tap the screen – to return to full navigation mode. The mode automatically ends when you reach your destination

For many of us, long drives – especially in rural areas or during travel – means worrying about battery drain. With Power Saving mode, Google has given Pixel 10 users a simple, native way to stretch battery life without sacrificing core navigation features.

If you travel often, or if your phone’s battery doesn’t last long, this feature deserves a try. Less eye candy, more reliability – and perhaps a stress-free drive home.