The secret Google Maps trick that gives Pixel 10 owners 4 extra hours of battery life

If you own one of the new Pixel 10 phones, you might have just received a great new tool in Google Maps. After a recent software update, Google is rolling out a special ‘Power Saving mode’ to help your phone’s battery last much longer while you’re getting driving directions.

It’s actually very easy to use. When you are following a route in your car, all you need to do is quickly press the physical power button on your phone. When you do this, your screen instantly changes to a very basic, black-and-white look. This simple, monochrome design is the key to saving power.

While the main map is still visible, Google removes many of the colorful elements and extra buttons. You’ll still see critical information, like the status bar showing your phone’s clock and battery level, and the directions for your next turn remain clear at the top of the screen.

However, unnecessary extras like the button for Google Assistant or Gemini disappear. You also won’t see the floating action buttons on the right side of the screen or the display showing your current driving speed—all hidden to help conserve energy.

If you want to quickly check your notifications, you can still swipe down from the top of the screen as you normally would. To leave the basic view and go back to the standard, full-color navigation, you simply need to tap the screen or press the power button again. The mode is also smart enough to turn itself off automatically the moment you arrive at your destination.

This helpful power saver is currently only available for the latest devices: the Pixel 10, the 10 Pro, the 10 Pro XL, and the 10 Pro Fold. Google has made a notable claim, suggesting that using this feature can add up to four extra hours of battery life while you are navigating. Of course, how much power you save will vary based on factors like your phone’s screen brightness settings and current traffic conditions.

It is important to remember that this special mode only works when you are using driving directions—it will not activate for walking or cycling routes. Also, your phone must be held upright, or in portrait view, for the feature to function.

The good news is that this feature is already switched on for you by default after a recent system update. If you decide you don’t need it, turning it off is simple. Just open the Google Maps application, tap on your profile picture, go to ‘Settings,’ then select ‘Navigation,’ and look for the ‘Driving options’ section near the bottom of the menu. You will find the toggle switch for ‘Power saving mode’ there.