How to Check AQI Using Google Maps on Android and iPhone

Air pollution can change a lot within a single day, especially in Indian cities during winter. Google Maps has a built-in Air Quality layer that shows the Air Quality Index (AQI) for your area and other places on the map. Here is how to check it on Android and iPhone, and how to read the numbers.

How to Check AQI in Google Maps

1. Open the Google Maps app on your Android phone or iPhone.
2. Tap the Layers button (the stacked squares icon) at the top right.
3. Under Map details, tap Air quality.
4. The map now shows coloured AQI levels. Zoom in or move around to check other areas.
5. Tap any coloured area to see the AQI number and more details.

To hide the air quality colours, open Layers again and tap Air quality to turn it off. For other map colours, see what the colours in Google Maps mean.

Check AQI With Google Search

You can also search for “air quality in [city name]” or “AQI [city name]” on Google. A card at the top of the results shows the current AQI and a short health suggestion.

What the AQI Numbers Mean in India

India’s Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) uses these AQI categories:

• 0 to 50: Good
• 51 to 100: Satisfactory
• 101 to 200: Moderately polluted
• 201 to 300: Poor
• 301 to 400: Very poor
• 401 to 500: Severe

Google Maps may show a slightly different scale or number than local monitors, because the data comes from different sources and models. For official readings in India, check the CPCB National Air Quality Index website or the CPCB Sameer app.

Tips for High Pollution Days

• Check the AQI before going for a walk, run or outdoor exercise.
• Keep windows closed when the AQI is Poor or worse.
• Wear a well-fitting N95 mask outdoors when pollution is very high.
• Children, older people and people with breathing problems should take extra care.

Google Maps has other useful layers too. Learn what the colours on Google Maps mean, or fix it if Google Maps is loading slowly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can I not see the Air quality option in Google Maps?

Update the Google Maps app from the Play Store or App Store. The Air quality layer may not be available in every region or on very old versions of the app.

How often does Google Maps update AQI?

Air quality data in Google Maps is refreshed regularly through the day, so it gives a good real-time picture. For exact official readings, compare it with CPCB data.

Which AQI level is safe for outdoor activities?

An AQI of 0 to 100 is generally fine for most people. Above 200, it is better to limit long or intense outdoor activity, especially for sensitive groups.

Final Takeaway

Open Google Maps, tap Layers and turn on Air quality to see the AQI around you in seconds. Use the CPCB categories to understand the numbers and check official CPCB data when you need exact readings.