DHAKA: Lost in ‘Nowhereland’ with ‘No Network’ as far as you can see? As always, Google Maps can help you find your way back, as long as you have an iOS or an Android device, even if you are offline!
Google recently added a feature to Google Maps, which lets you save maps to your phone.
Yes, you can now check maps even when there is no Internet connection, reports the NDTV recently mentioning the downside is that you will not have access to route information, addresses, navigation, traffic, and a host of other data that require an Internet connection.
However, having map data for reference might just save you a lot of time.
Here's how to use this nifty feature on iOS and Android. The steps are identical for both platforms.
What you need to use this feature
You're going to need an Android or iOS device as unfortunately, this feature isn't available on other platforms.
iOS users be sure that you have installed Google Maps version 3 Android users would have Google Maps version 8 before following the steps listed below.
How to save maps offline?
1. To use this feature, first sign in to your Google account to use this feature.
2. Type "OK Maps" in the search bar and hit the search button. A dialog at the top of the map asks "Save this map?" with a Save button at the bottom of the screen.
3. At this point, you can zoom in or out, and move the map, to select the area you want to save. Everything that is on-screen gets downloaded, so if you zoom out to save the entire Delhi area, for example, then you can later zoom in to see the individual localities and streets.
4. Once you've selected the area, tap the Save button at the bottom of the screen. A dialogue box pops up and you are asked to enter a name for the map. Just enter a name and tap on Save.
5. Accessing offline maps is easy. Just tap the 'person' icon, which is next to the directions icon on the search bar. This will take you to your profile. Scroll to the bottom to see your saved maps. You can rename saved maps in case you plan to save more than one.
So, from now on, don’t be afraid to lost at anywhere as the returning way is now in your pocket!
BDST: 2159 HRS, AUG 28, 2014
