![](https://developer.android.com/static/images/google/gps-maps.png)

Allow your users to explore the world with rich maps provided by Google.
Identify locations with custom markers, augment the map data with image
overlays, embed one or more maps as fragments, show details about nearby points
of interest, and much more.

## Maps SDK

The [Maps SDK for Android](https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android-sdk/) is part of the Google Play services
platform and lets you include maps and customized mapping information in your
app. Follow the [Get Started](https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android-sdk/start) guide to set up Google Play services
in your project, then dive into the key features of the Maps SDK.

#### Add a map to your app

With Maps SDK for Android, you can embed maps into an activity as a fragment
using an XML snippet. This SDK offers exciting features such as 3D maps;
indoor, satellite, terrain, and hybrid maps; vector-based tiles for efficient
caching and drawing; animated transitions; and much more. Learn about how to
[add a map object](https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android-sdk/map).

#### Customize the map

Add markers onto the map to indicate special points of interest for your users.
You can define custom colors or icons for your map markers to match your app's
look and feel. To further enhance the app, draw polylines and polygons to
indicate paths or regions, or provide complete image overlays. Learn more in the
guide about how to [draw markers](https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android-sdk/marker).

#### Control the user's view

Give your users a different view of the world with the ability to control the
rotation, tilt, zoom, and pan properties of the "camera" perspective of the map.
Learn how to [change the view](https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android-sdk/views).

#### Add Street View to your app

[Add Street View](https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android-sdk/streetview) into an activity and let your users explore
the world through panoramic 360-degree views. Programmatically control the zoom
and orientation (tilt and bearing) of the Street View camera, and animate the
camera movements over a given duration.

## Places API

Help your users find businesses, restaurants, and other points of interest based
on their current location. Use the [Places SDK for Android](https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/places/android-sdk)
to provide convenient, relevant information like contact information and
business hours when your users need it.