
- Version
- Download 7
- File Size 29.63 KB
- File Count 1
- Create Date January 24, 2025
- Last Updated January 24, 2025
Google Maps, launched by Google in 2005, is an advanced online mapping service that has transformed how users navigate the world. With its interactive platform, users can access satellite imagery, street views, and real-time public transportation schedules—all through their devices.
Google Maps Logo Evolution: Meaning and History
Like all Google products, the Google Maps logo reflects the brand's iconic corporate color palette. The logo, featuring a wordmark and a memorable emblem, is complemented by a distinctive standalone icon that is instantly recognizable globally.
2005: The Beginning
The original 2005 logo featured Google’s iconic multicolor wordmark, with “Maps” underlined in yellow. A small gray “Beta” label appeared beneath the wordmark, signifying its initial testing phase.
2005–2006: “Local” Variation
During this period, a variant with the word “Local” instead of “Maps” was introduced. This version omitted the “Beta” label, retaining the same multicolor design and typography.
2006–2009: A Return to “Maps”
Google reverted to using “Maps” in the logo during this phase, signaling a renewed focus on its mapping service.
2009–2010: A Major Shift
In 2009, the word “Maps” shifted to the right of the main Google wordmark and was displayed in lowercase blue letters. This year also marked the debut of Google Maps’ first icon.
2010–2015: A Flatter Design
The 2010 redesign removed gradients, opting for a flatter aesthetic while retaining some depth. In 2013, the gradient was further minimized, and an alternative design emerged. This design featured an unfolded map inside a rounded square, accompanied by a red location marker that replaced an earlier blue dot.
2015–2020: Modernization
The 2015 redesign introduced a sleeker sans-serif font for the logo. The word “Maps” appeared in light gray title case, exuding professionalism. The accompanying location marker became brighter and more prominent, with a specialized icon for Chrome showcasing a red flag on a rounded map.
2020–Present: A Unified Emblem
The 2020 update integrated the colorful emblem into the main logo. The redesigned location marker, composed of Google’s signature colors—red, yellow, green, and blue—features a white dot at its center. Minimalist yet impactful, this design emphasizes expertise and quality.
Google Maps Icons: Distinct and Recognizable
Google Maps uses two distinct icon designs across operating systems. The first features a colorful location pin against a white or light gray background, with green dominating the palette. The second icon mimics a street map with geometric patterns in green, yellow, blue, and gray, highlighted by a bold red location marker.
With its innovative features and striking visual identity, Google Maps remains a leader in digital mapping, constantly evolving to meet the needs of its users.
File | Action |
---|---|
Google-Maps-logo-500x293.png | Download |