Google Maps adds new offline features

Google Maps will only download areas to your device when you are on a Wi-Fi connection.

Google Maps: It seems that Google is aiming at making things simpler in India by launching the offline modes for its products.

While the offline capability has been there in Maps, but one could only view view an area of the offline map.

The requirement of an active data connection would render Google Maps useless in the areas where the connection is spotty. Before leaving, download the area by searching for Delhi, and tap "Download". Once an area has been saved for offline access, users can also enable turn-by-turn driving directions as well as search for specific destinations even when there is no Internet connection. From there, the next time you find yourself with an intermittent connection or without an Internet connection at all, Google Maps will continue to work - vowing it doesn't matter if you're vacationing in Goa or in an underground parking lot.

The launch of offline Maps in India comes just days after Google officially introduced the feature on Android.

In an emailed statement, Suren Ruhela, Director, Google Maps, said, "Having a spotty internet connection shouldn't mean you miss your next turn". The iOS version will be coming soon. The company calls it "Offline Maps". However, we tried the offline navigation feature in Mumbai and found it to be quite handy with accurate turn-by-turn navigation as well as voice prompts. Local Guides is their latest strategy to engage with everyday users and try to get them to share photos, reviews and business details to enhance Google Maps as a one-stop shop for both digital maps and location recommendations.

Google Maps can switch between online and offline modes, giving users live traffic conditions for their routes when they are connected to the Internet.