To add an emoji, open Google Maps and press the Saved tab at the bottom of the screen. This won’t work with the default lists that come with Google Maps such as “Want to go,” “Favorites,” “Travel plans,” “Labeled,” and “Starred places.” You’ll have to create your own list or edit an existing one you created. In a video shared by Google on X, a new list named “Fav Coffee Spots” is created. Select an emoji for the list, which in this case is a cup of coffee, and add a description. Now, add the spots you want to add to the list.
Once you’ve filled out the list, when you see one of these spots on Google Maps and are close to the location, you’ll see the name of the place with the chosen emoji next to it. If you zoom out on the map, you’ll see only the emoji. We assume that Google made this change because, unlike a pin stuck in a map, an emoji can convey more information to the user. Using emojis, you’ll be able to quickly determine if a certain spot on a map is one of your favorite coffee houses, a favorite ice cream parlor, or a burger joint you visit often without having to tap on the location.