When you open Google Maps, you can easily find your location on the map or check out nearby places by panning and zooming in and out on the map.

1. From the Home screen, tap > Maps.
2. Tap to show your current location. The blue marker shows your current location on the map.
3. Do any of the following:

   Move around	Swipe your finger to any direction on the screen to view nearby places on the map.
   Use Compass mode	Tap to switch to Compass mode. The map changes to an angled view and automatically orients itself depending on the direction you're facing.
   Zoom in or out	Spread your thumb and index finger across the area that you want to zoom in the map. You can also double-tap the area on the map that you want to zoom in. Pinch your thumb and index finger on the map to zoom out.
   View information for a random location	Press and hold a location on the map. A balloon opens over the location, with the address and a thumbnail from street view (if available). Tap the balloon to see more information. You can get directions to the location, check for nearby places of interest, and more.