Before we dive into viewing the AQI near you, we need to understand what AQI means, and why it is so important. Let’s have a look.
What Is Air Quality Index or AQI
AQI is a measurement system used to assess the levels of air pollution in an area. It is a numerical value that corresponds to the quality of the air based on the amount of pollutants in the air. The range of AQI is between 0-999, where a smaller number represents better air quality. Below is a table that shows AQI categories based on standards from the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States. Now that we have an idea of the Air Quality Index, let us see how you can check if the air near you is safe to breathe.
Check Air Quality Index (AQI) Of Your Location Using Google Maps
Google Maps provides real-time AQI of several areas around the globe. You can view it on Android, iOS, and even on Desktop. Here’s how to do it on each.
On Android
Step 1: Open the Google Maps app on your Android phone. Tap on the layers button. Note: You can also use the search bar to type the location you want to get the air quality data. Step 2: Scroll down to find the Air quality option. Tap on it. Google Maps will now show you the AQI of your location. You can use the pinch-to-zoom gesture to adjust the map and view the AQI of nearby areas. You can also swipe up to get a list view of all nearby locations with their AQI.
On iOS Devices
Step 1: Open the Google Maps app on your iOS device. Tap on the layers icon. Note: You can also use the search bar to type the location you want to get the air quality data. Step 2: Tap on the Air Quality button. Step 3: Zoom out to see the AQI of your location and nearby areas.
On Desktop
Step 1: Open the Google Maps website in a web browser on your computer. Open Google Maps website Step 2: Hover your mouse cursor over the layers icon. Click on More. Step 3: Now click on Air Quality. Step 4: Use the scroll wheel on your mouse, or use pinch-to-zoom to view the AQI of your location. Tip: You can also check the AQI of your room or office by using an indoor air quality monitor.
Bonus: Check AQI Using Google Assistant or Siri
You can also directly ask about the AQI of your area by directly asking Google Assistant on Android and Siri on iOS. Here’s how to go about it.
Using Google Assistant on Android
Step 1: Summon the Google Assistant using the voice command ‘Okay Google’. You can also use gestures for the same, based on your Android device. Step 2: Ask Google Assistant about the AQI of your area. You can also ask about any other area. Google Assistant will show you the AQI of your requested area.
Using Siri on iPhone
Step 1: Summon Siri using the voice command ‘Hey Siri’. You can also hold the power button instead of using voice commands. (On iPhones with a home button, you have to hold the home button to activate Siri). Tip: If your iPhone is running iOS 17, you can also summon Siri by saying Siri instead of Hey Siri. Here’re other iOS 17 features you can check out. Step 2: Ask Siri about the AQI of your area, or any other location. Siri will now show you the AQI of the requested location.
Stay Away From Air Pollution
Checking AQI in Google Maps is an effective way to stay informed about the air quality in your area. If the AQI levels of your home are not good, it is advised to use an air purifier to ensure that you breathe in safe air. The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.
