How to Download and Use Google Maps Offline

Google Maps has been an important service for users for some time, and it has improved with the introduction of offline maps. You can navigate even without Wi-Fi or mobile data. Many people use Google Maps almost daily, so being able to download offline maps is a very practical feature. This article will help you use Google Maps offline on iPhone and Android devices.

How to Download and Use Google Maps Offline on Android:

Google Maps is a powerful tool that helps users easily navigate unfamiliar terrain. While it relies on an internet connection for real-time updates and information, it’s also possible to use Google Maps offline and download routes and satellite maps. Allowing users to access maps and directions even when offline or with limited connectivity. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to download and use Google Maps offline, ensuring you never get lost, even when you’re off the grid.

Downloading Offline Maps

1. Open the Google Maps app on your Android or iOS device.
2. Ensure you’re signed in to your Google account.
3. Search for the area you want to download for offline use. You can search for a specific city, region, or custom area.
4. Once you’ve found the area, tap on it to open the information panel.
5. Tap the “Download” button (downward arrow icon) to initiate the download process.
6. Choose the size of the area you want to download. Google Maps will estimate the storage space required for the download.
7. Tap on “Download” again to confirm. The map will start downloading to your device.

Accessing Google Maps Offline

1. Once the map download is complete, you can access the offline map by opening the Google Maps app.
2. Tap on your profile icon in the top-right corner of the screen.
3. Select “Offline maps” from the menu.
4. You’ll see a list of all the offline maps you’ve downloaded. Tap on the map you want to use.
5. The offline map will open, allowing you to view the area and navigate without an internet connection.

Using Offline Google Maps for Navigation

1. When the offline map is open, you can use it for navigation just like you would an online map.
2. Enter your destination in the search bar at the top of the screen.
3. Google Maps will calculate the route based on the offline map data.
4. Follow the turn-by-turn directions as usual. You’ll receive voice-guided navigation even without an internet connection.
5. If you stray off the route, Google Maps will recalculate the directions based on your location.

Tips for Using Google Maps:

• Keep your offline maps updated regularly, especially if you frequently travel to new areas.
• Be mindful of the storage space on your device when downloading offline maps, as larger areas may require significant storage.
• You can rename offline maps in the offline maps menu for easier identification.
• By default, offline maps are available for 30 days. After this period, you must update them to continue using them offline.

Limitations

Even though it is a very useful feature, it does have some limitations attached to it.
Some of the limitations are:

• You cannot download a large area, for example, a whole country. You can only select a certain area.
• Not possible to download a map that takes more than 1.5 GB.
• The maps will be stored for 30 days. The downloaded maps will automatically be deleted after 30 days.

This feature has been a massive hit among users, as accessing Wi-Fi is difficult. So there you have it, a simple guide on how to save and use Google Maps offline.

Google Maps can be a lifesaver if you are traveling and cannot access the internet in that country. When I went to Amsterdam for the very first time. I realized my network does not work in that city. Navigating without Google Maps in a new city can be really troublesome, although we had a map of the city on paper as well. So, I went to a bar and downloaded a map of the whole Amsterdam on my phone. So that I can use Google Maps offline. After that, I moved around the city and peacefully explored all the tourist places.

For any questions or feedback, do not hesitate to leave a comment down below.