MAPS.ME: Offline maps GPS Nav 15.7.71702

Maps have always been an essential travel accessory. While hard paper maps may have gone out of fashion for online map apps but there is no denying the importance of an accurate map especially when you are going to a new location altogether. Google Maps has essentially revolutionized the travel industry with its groundbreaking ability to map every part of the world and to provide excellent navigation for all users. The only problem with Google Maps is its requirement of an online internet connection to provide you detailed information about each route. This is where, if you fear, you will not have any internet connection where you are going and where a map would be needed, using offline maps becomes a viable option. Maps.ME offers offline maps for a whole host of countries. We review the app's functionality and features to see if this app can prove useful in your travels or not.

MAPS.ME makes a solid impression directly from the start as it tracks your location and offers you the option of downloading the map of the country you are in currently. Once the download is complete, the map loads up with all locations close-by to your location present on the map. You can move around in the app to see its accuracy for yourself. The data is picked up from OpenStreetMap with its accuracy well documented in the open-source community. The map works offline all the same with GPS tracking ensuring that your location on the map is always tracked correctly even with no internet connection.

The offline maps in Maps.ME are very similar in design to Google Maps so you will not have any issues in adjusting to the offline maps even if you have never used them before. The layout is simple with the Zoom in, Zoom out and direction indication at the right of the screen. A layer icon is present at the top left of the screen and you can layer the map based on terrain, traffic or subway routes (traffic and subway options only work for a small group of countries). There are five tabs at the bottom of the screen namely Search, Route, Discover, Bookmarks and Guides, and a 'more' option that shows you further app features.

The Search section has multiple categories including Parking, Gas, Transport, Wi-Fi etc. so that you can easily find the places you want. You can also type the names of particular places in the Search bar. The information is presented based on distance from current location, is extremely accurate, and includes even the smallest of places. The Route section allows for putting in a destination and seeing the car route, walk route, bus route, cycling route or taxi route. Bus and taxi routes are only available for a few countries while the timing for cycling and car route might be off too since live traffic details are only available for a few countries (with an internet connection). The navigation though is fine and if you are only looking for directions, this section will guide you correctly all the way. You can find nearby attractions, eat and drink places and hotel and lodging spots through the Discover section. The Bookmarks and Guides section is useful for travelers who can use the app to research locations and mark them before they start their tour. The app also offers travel guides for most countries that include bookmarks for famous spots etc. Other features include option of downloading map of almost all countries in the world, addition of a new place on the map and sharing of your location via text message or any other communication medium.

Features:

• Clean app design
• Accurate and detailed maps of all locations
• Interesting guides tailor-made for tourists and travelers
• Great Search section with ready-made categories to make searching easier
• Excellent turn-by-turn navigation option while offline

Conclusion:

Maps.ME is a great app for anyone who is on the lookout for offline maps. With detailed maps, great navigation and well-drafted travel guides, the app is a great treasure for travel enthusiasts who love to explore different parts of the world!