Google maps turn by turn directions no longer interrupts iTunes music player in iOS7

I often use Google Maps app when I travel while simultaneously listening to music. I have my iPhone connected to my car stereo via the Lightning port. In iOS6, when Google would give turn by turn directions the music volume would duck and the voice guided navigation would play through the car stereo. After updating to iOS7, this feature no longer works. With both iTunes and Google Maps open, the music volume is always dimmed and voice guided navigation is always off.


I do not notice this issue with Apple's Maps app. So far it appears to work properly and I am using this as a work around. However there are several reasons I favor Google Maps as a superior solution for the moment. For example, if I ask for directions to a specific location such as a local business Google is able to provide this information 90% of the time. By comparison, the same query with Siri usually results in having to search the web for an address first and then having to go back and ask for directions to that specific street address. It is a minor inconvenience, but it is enough of a hassle that I tend to stick with the better content of Google Maps for now.


Perhaps this bug is iOS7 related or perhaps the issue is with the Google Maps app. Either way, I am reporting because I'd love to see it fixed. I have noticed several bugs (this being one of many that I am reporting) since upgrading to iOS7 which has been very disappointing. I am a huge Apple advocate and this has not been the experience of "It just works" that I have come to expect from my Apple products. It is because I care so much about the Apple ecosystem that has made my work and play so much more enjoyable that I will take the time to report these in hopes that Apple will take notice and that subsequent updates will address these issues.

iPhone 5, iOS 7

Posted on Sep 25, 2013 11:45 AM

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4 replies

Oct 29, 2013 5:35 PM in response to mediabrain

So I have a similar but different problem with Google Maps on iPhone 5s. On my phone, the ducking of music works just fine. But if I try to stop the music, it appears as muted on my car's bluetooth connection, and the voice directions from Google Maps is also muted. I cannot seem to find a way to get Google Maps to give me directions without it also starting the music app. Very strange and quite annoying.

Feb 7, 2014 4:37 AM in response to Rick15989

I never did. Partly I believe it's the interaction with my car's bluetooth connection and instructions it sends the phone when they connect. It seems like if I actively QUIT all applications that could play audio (SiriusXM, Podcasts, Music), then I can get the directions without any music. (That said, the SiriusXM app doesn't always play nice. If any of these are open, not even playing, then they start up when I select bluetooth audio on my car stereo. But I still can't tell the audio to stop without it muting either Google Maps or Apple's Maps. They both behave the same way.

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Google maps turn by turn directions no longer interrupts iTunes music player in iOS7

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