Google Maps Goes Offline

Google Maps goes offline. Google announced that in a massive update to Google Maps users will be able to download full maps and enjoy their full functionality.

Android users are to benefit from the update starting today, while iOS users will have to wait a while longer until Google adds the features to the iOS Google Maps app. This is great news considering that Google Maps is the number one mapping application downloaded around the world. Google Maps goes offline and allows users to download areas in the eventuality that they might lack an internet connection where they are travelling.

Whatever areas you are interested in, the specific map can be downloaded. The update brings exciting features such as the possibility to retain directions, as well as the possibility to check for attractions, places, destinations and receive a full feed of information on these specific requirements.

Whether it is a city you’re interested in, or a county, or even an entire country, Google Maps has it all. The update has been discussed during the I/O developers conference taking place in May. Offline Google Maps is not a new feature by itself. However, the fact that it now works on the same basis as online brings an added value. Search for destinations and get accurate directions, as well as information displayed as Google cards with offline Google Maps.

For Android users, the enhanced offline Google Maps started rolling out today. Gradually, it will come to all Android devices. The iOS rollout will be coming soon as well. With acquiring Waze in 2013 for 1.1 billion dollars, Google improved Google Maps enormously. Based on Waze technology for satellite imaging, street view was made possible, as well as panoramic images for bette directions.

Google Traffic as well as route planning or public transport information are useful integrated features for the millions of people worldwide downloading the Google Maps app. And now they’re all available in offline map. Google announced that Google Maps will download info only through wi-fi connections to help save the data transfer caps and not induce unwanted costs for users.

If you’d like to also contribute to making Google Maps even more valuable, check out the update that Google announced for the Local Guides Program as well. Sign in and become a virtual guide by uploading comments, reviews, places, photos and others directly on Google Maps. There is a reward program for the most valuable contributors and as much information as possible on interest points never hurts.

Photo Credits: Flickr