You might not believe that but the truth is that Google Maps is one such Android application that you can use even if there is no data connection on your device. This feature is really great in case if you’re at a location and looking for ways to get out or something in the same vicinity. For those who use Google Maps on a regular basis, this offline usage option is really great and feasible. Let’s see how you can use it.
How to use Google Maps offline
The one caution while using Google Maps offline is that you will have to first use it online in a bid to save the required data. Considering that:
- Run Google Maps (while online) and search for your location.
- After you get the location/area you look for, the fastest way to save it for later is to move to the options menu by tapping the three lines (hamburger) icon and tapping Offline areas.
- Now, tap the plus or add symbol in the bottom right of the screen and you will be prompted with a notification that says “download this area?”
- Drag the map inside the square box until it covers the area you want a map of. Pinch to zoom (putting two fingers on the display and bringing them together) to close in on the area you want. Move your fingers in the opposite way to zoom out and encompass a larger area.
- Once you are satisfied with the map area, click on Download.
- You will be asked to name the downloaded area. Do so in the box that appears.
- Once you have downloaded the map to your device, you can access it by tapping the menu icon at the top left of the main Maps page and returning to Offline areas, where you can esaily see the downloaded area.
Limitations of offline maps
Though this is really great, there are various restrictions or limitations associated with this option. Let’s understand them. For example, it is almost impossible to download the detailed map of a whole city. The box you draw around the area you look for has a fixed size and it is not feasible to download anything that takes up more than around 1.5 GB of storage space.
Downloaded Google maps are meant to consume a huge amount of storage space to store the detailed information they provide, so it is recommendedto connect to Wi-Fi before downloading all the maps you require. Moreover, the maps you download will be there in your drive for 30 days and after this they get automatically deleted, so keep in mind that they have a limited life.
Does the above given procedure add any value to your life? If yes, do share your views in the comments box.