It’s called automatic downloads of offline maps.

The magic feature in Google MapsDownloading offline maps in Google Maps isn’t exactly the most convenient thing to do, but on Android Automotive, the app comes with a secret magic feature. If you’re planning a longer journey that goes through several states, download their offline maps and you’re good to go. Other navigation apps, including competing products from the likes of HERE, allow users to download the full map for a certain country. Only available with a data plan, the offline maps can be downloaded by selecting your own map and then defining the area you want to cover. Wi-Fi connections are preferred, so if you’re at home and launch Google Maps, the update should automatically start in the background.Ī similar system is also available on Android Automotive. Google Maps offline maps are then automatically updated when the app is running. If you plan to travel abroad, you need to download multiple packs because you can’t just select a larger region. However, the selected area is typically rather small, so you can’t download the maps for an entire country. The mobile version of the app requires users to select a region they want to download by defining it on the map. How to download offline maps in Google MapsThe way Google Maps handles offline maps leaves a lot to be desired. Offline maps are primarily aimed at navigating without an Internet connection, but on Android Automotive, they can feed information to the adaptive cruise control system when other data can’t be found. Google Maps supplies essential data to vehicle systems, including the speed limit for a certain section of the road when traffic signs aren’t available. Android Automotive-powered vehicles come with Google Maps pre-loaded, and the navigation app is in charge of more than just navigation. Google has tried to improve this feature with several updates, and one of the most important is available in cars where Google Maps is offered built-in. Certain features aren’t available when the device running Google Maps is offline, such as real-time traffic updates.ĭespite this shortcoming, offline maps still come in handy, especially when trying to find a location in a remote area. As such, the navigation experience in Google Maps can continue uninterrupted, even when going through regions with a spotty cellular signal.

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