Google Earth is for people who want to look at the planet from above, from high-resolution satellite imagery to 360° Street View, rather than get turn-by-turn directions. It also shows 3D terrain and buildings in hundreds of cities. Google LLC publishes it, and it is free.
First steps after installing Google Earth from Google Play
The app is listed in the GPS and navigation category and carries an Everyone content rating. It has no ads and no in-app purchases, so nothing interrupts the first launch.
The one feature named is examining the planet, which is a fair summary of where to begin: pick a place and look at it from above.
Satellite imagery, 3D cities and Street View
According to the store description, the app shows high-resolution satellite imagery and 3D terrain and buildings in hundreds of cities. Street View adds 360° views of streets and neighborhoods.
The description also mentions creating and collaborating on data-driven maps. Check the Google Play page for details on how those tools work before relying on them.
Google Play lists over 500 million installs and a 3.8 rating from about 3 million ratings. The app first appeared in 2010, and the most recent update is dated November 3, 2026.
When Waze or CoMaps fits better
Google Earth is built for exploring, not for guiding a drive. Waze Navigation & Live Traffic is listed as an alternative for road trips.
CoMaps, CairnGPS, Colota, Foggy Maps and Life360 are also listed as alternatives. Compare their store pages first.
Google Earth pros and cons
Pros
- Free, with no ads and no in-app purchases
- Satellite imagery with 3D terrain and buildings in hundreds of cities
- Street View gives 360° views of streets
- Over 500 million installs on Google Play
- Published by Google LLC with a first release in 2010
Cons
- Google Play rating is 3.8, modest for an app of this reach
- Version number is listed as varying, so no fixed build is stated
- Size varies by device
Is Google Earth safe?
Google Earth comes from Google LLC and is free, with no ads and no in-app purchases. Its content rating is Everyone, so nothing in it is aimed at adults only. It works with maps and imagery, so check which permissions it asks for, such as location, before you allow them.
How to install Google Earth
- Press the Google Play button on this page.
- Check the listing in the Play Store and press Install.
- Open Google Earth when the install finishes. Updates arrive through Google Play.
