Google Maps cycling navigation not working in the background when screen is locked (workaround inside)

Google Maps users are experiencing an issue with background navigation, specifically when using the app for cycling directions. The issue seems to have surfaced earlier this month and persists even with the latest version of Google Maps. Background navigation, which allows the app to continue giving directions even when minimized, the screen is locked or even in sleep mode, works correctly for driving directions but malfunctions during cycling.

Cyclists using different Android brands ranging from Google Pixel to Samsung Galaxy devices have been forced to find workarounds to address this annoying glitch. Most report success after uninstalling the recent Google Maps updates via the Google Play Store, while others have resorted to downloading older versions of the app (v11.121 and prior) from APKMirror and other trusted APK sources. These hint at a glitch in the most recent versions of Google Maps, so you better avoid installing these updates if you use the app for cycling navigation.

While Google has yet to officially acknowledge the issue, several users who left reviews on the Google Play Store were told the matter would be escalated to the developers, indicating that Google is likely investigating the problem. However, we can’t tell you when to expect a fix for the background navigation problem in Google Maps.

Even so, effected Google Maps users at least have a reason to remain optimistic. The Google Maps team is likely working on a fix, and an update could be released soon to resolve the background navigation problems for cyclists.