
Once you're back online, Google Maps might suggest a detour if there's unusual backup ahead. What you won't get with offline mapping is traffic information. By default, that's done only when you're on Wi-Fi. Once you download an area, Google will periodically refresh the data with new businesses and road changes. As you change your selection, you're told how large the file is and how much storage on the phone you have left. Larger areas will give you more flexibility for navigation, but they also take up more storage. Then pinch in or out to select what area you want to download. To do so, start by searching for a location, such as a city. You'll need to download databases ahead of time, preferably when you have a Wi-Fi connection. With the new version, you'll be able to do most of what you can do now. You can't use it for navigation and other tasks we've come to expect in digital maps. It lets you save a small region ahead of time, but it's the equivalent of displaying a paper map in a phone app. Google Maps has had a limited offline feature. Offline mapping is also available with some third-party apps, including Nokia's Here. Mapping apps included with Windows phones have long had this feature, but Windows has a tiny market share compared with iPhones and Android.

Google is also targeting users in emerging markets, where cellular speeds are slower and prices are higher relative to typical incomes.

It's also great if you're travelling abroad and want to conserve on expensive data plans. The feature is ideal if you're trying to leave an underground parking garage or a remote national park. Google says a version for iPhones will come soon. Map = new (document.With an update for Android phones Tuesday, you'll be able to search nearby businesses and get driving directions, including turn-by-turn voice prompts, even if your Internet connection is spotty or non-existent. In order to get a panorama ID (pano), I have developed a little HTML page whith which you can get some of its parameters (zoom/Pov, pitch and heading) and get the Street View Image request HTTP URL.ĭon't forget to replace the YOUR_API_KEY with your own API key (obvious)
