Using Maps URLs, you can build a universal, cross-platform URL to launch Google Maps and perform searches, get directions and navigation, and display map views and panoramic images. The URL syntax is the same regardless of the platform in use. You don't need a Google API key to use Maps URLs.

Brothers Lars and Jens Rasmussen co-founded a startup mapping company in early 2003 called Where 2 Technologies. A year later, they sold that company to Google, which would later turn it into Google Maps. Lars Eilstrup Rasmussen is a Danish computer scientist, technology executive, and the co-founder of Google Maps.

Collaborate with colleagues: Tip: You can quickly add multiple collaborators to your map by sharing your map with a Google Group. Each member of group will have access to your map, and if you add new people to the group, they'll have access too.

Use Maps in Chrome Find a place or location in Chrome, without the use of a navigation app. On a web page, touch and hold the address you want to check. Tap View with Google Maps on Chrome. To view route options, tap Get Directions.