Use Google Maps Offline On Android

Ever since the launch of Google Maps, people have been using the App on their Android phones to find their way around unfamiliar areas. Thanks to its detailed maps, everybody can navigate in unknown places without getting lost. It even provides us with turn-by-turn directions as if it were a true GPS navigator.

All these features offered by Google Maps are great, however, what will happen when you travel in a place where you have no mobile network coverage? In such situation, you won’t be able to connect to the internet thus leaving your live mobile map features useless.

Luckily, Google Maps offers a feature that lets you save maps offline. Thanks to this, you’ll be able to access them later at any given moment. Although it does come with some limitations, it sure is better than having no navigation at all.

Source: iTechify

Throughout this article, Chinavasion will show you step-by-step how to save offline maps with Google and how to use them later on without internet access.

Step 1: Open Google Maps And Find Your Destination:

The first thing you’ll have to do is opening your Google Maps Application before you head out on your next trip. Make sure that you are connected to the internet and are signed in to Google Maps. Once inside, search for the destination to where you’re headed.

Step 2:  Save Your Map:

Once you have located your destination, click on the place’s name. This should bring up a menu at the bottom of your screen with more information and pictures of your destination. In this menu, you will find a ‘’save’’ button. It has to be understood, however, that this only saves your destination, but not the map.

In order to save the local map, navigate to the menu button (3 round dots) found in the top right corner. After clicking it, select ‘’download Offline Area’’. In the next screen, Google Maps lets you move around and zoom to select the exact area you want to save.

Source: TheIndianExpress

Step 3: Access Your Saved Maps Offline:

Once you have saved the map of your liking, you’re all set to use it offline. In order to find your map, simply open up the App and click on the menu button in the left top corner. The menu button normally has the design of three stripes and can be found next to the search bar. Once you’re here, navigate yourself to the dedicated ”Offline Maps” area.

Although your offline maps will be saved by default on your Android phone’s internal storage, you can also download them onto an SD card. This can be easily acheved by heading to the ‘’Offline Maps’’ menu and clicking the settings icon on the top right corner. In here, navigate to ‘’Storage Preferences’’ and change ‘’Device’’ to ‘’SD Card’’.

Step 4: Use Google Maps Offline:

When you find yourself in the situation where you need the previously saved offline maps, you simply have to open up the Google Maps Application on your Android phone. Once you have opened up your previously saved map, you’ll be able to use Google Maps like you normally would. It even is capable of providing you with driving directions, however, you can’t receive any transit, cycling, or walking directions. Neither will you be able to enjoy up to date traffic information while using your offline maps.