To call Google Maps just an app of a day is to do it a disservice. Because it should be app of the day, everyday. It’s earned Lifetime Achievement status. It’s the best app available. And it still gets better.
The latest update to Google Maps on Android brings a feature we’ve long been wanting for: downloading local maps to store on your phone. That way you can use Google Maps even without a data connection. Whoaaa.
What’s it do?
You know what Google Maps does. I use it everyday. You probably do too. And Google Maps on Android has long been the best version of Google Maps! There’s navigation and Google uses it as a testbed for brand spanking new features that take forever (if at all) to show up on other platforms. Their latest ‘Labs’ feature lets you download the map area for a 16km radius from any location to your phone so you’ll never need a data connection. Just get on any Places page and “More” to download the maps. The maps are easily manageable (stored in Google Maps cache settings) and delete themselves after 30 days (to save space).
Why do we like it?
I live in New York and subway stations don’t have mobile phone service. I can’t use Google maps until I’m out. Now I can. If I’m going to take a trip to a foreign country, I can download the maps beforehand so I’ll have it on the ready when I get there. It’s Google Maps the way we’ve always wanted it: anywhere, anytime, however, whenever. No more excuses on not knowing where things are.
The Best
Downloadable maps!
The Worst
No street view