Google Maps may now force you to sign in before showing photos and reviews (Update: Fixed)
Source: Android Authority
TL;DR
- Signed‑out Google Maps users can only see a single image of a location.
- To view multiple photos, they must sign in to their Google account.
- Reviews are also hidden for signed‑out users.
Update – February 23 2026 (2:09 PM ET)
A few days after the issue was first reported, Android Authority and 9to5Google confirmed that Google has rolled back the change/fixed the problem. Signed‑out users can now again see reviews, photos, and other content without needing to log in.
Original article – February 18 2026 (12:12 PM ET)
Google Maps traditionally works whether you’re signed in or not—you can search for places, get directions, and view basic information without an account. However, some features (e.g., recent trips, saved places) already require a login.
Viewing photos
When you click on a destination, Google Maps normally shows a sidebar with multiple user‑submitted images. Users reported that, while signed out, they only see a single picture for any public location (e.g., the Statue of Liberty). After signing in, the full photo carousel becomes available.
Accessing reviews
Reviews, which appear in the same sidebar near the bottom, are also missing for signed‑out users. Signing in restores the ability to read and write reviews.
We have reached out to Google for comment and will update the article if new information emerges.