10 Best Free Offline GPS Apps for iPhone and Android

The use of digital maps has fundamentally changed how we explore new places and interact with our surroundings. These days, all you need is an address key to get somewhere, and a map will appear with detailed step-by-step directions.

With just one click, maps now make it easy to discover new places and instantly access a wealth of knowledge. Most of us use online maps. But what if the internet signal is poor or if we are not connected to the internet at all?

Don’t worry, thanks to many apps we can use GPS whenever we are offline. We will present you the top 10 offline navigation apps in this blog post. Without an Internet connection, these applications provide turn-by-turn directions, route planning, and information about attractions, landmarks, and eateries.

Advantages of Offline GPS Navigation Apps

Lack of online requirement: The main advantage of using offline maps is that they can be used without an online connection. Without an Internet connection, you can easily download maps and use them to plan itineraries, navigate to different locations, and more.

Saves data: Offline maps are downloaded and stored locally on your smartphone, allowing you to view specific areas and plan routes without using up all your data.

Faster loading than online maps: Offline maps open much faster. They don’t require an internet download, so you don’t have to wait for them.

Battery conservation: The battery usually drains more quickly when using navigational charts. You can extend your battery life to some extent by using offline maps.

Greater privacy: Some applications, like Google Maps, log your past locations. When using offline maps you do not transmit your location to the Internet. It becomes somewhat more exclusive.

Top 10 Free Offline GPS Applications for iPhone and Android

1) Apple Maps

Apple just added offline map capabilities to Apple Maps. In iOS 17, you can download parts of maps and get turn-by-turn directions, find things nearby, get directions and more, just like you can with Google Maps. are

In the app, you can view and download a location or specific region. Apple only supports a few locales for offline maps at the time of writing this article. If you can store the map offline, just tap the avatar, choose an area or location, then click Download. In the Map Downloads section, you can see all the downloaded maps.

Here are some simple instructions you can use to quickly download Apple Maps to your iPhone.

Note that smartphones running iOS 17 or later are the only ones that allow Apple Maps offline. If your device doesn’t meet the requirements, you can use great alternatives to use maps offline, like Google Maps, Maps.Me, and other top apps. Without iOS 17, there is no different way to download and use Apple Maps offline.

How to use Apple Maps offline after downloading:

• Get your iPhone’s Apple Maps app open.
• The new “Offline Maps” button can be pressed after tapping your profile avatar in the bar.
• Select “Download New Map”.
• Find the region you want to download by searching.The home area will be automatically suggested by the app.
• The software will show how much storage you need to save the map in the preview. After you confirm using the “Download” button, the map will appear in the “Downloaded” list.
  
  Download Apple Maps: iOS

2) Google Maps

According to billions of users, Google Maps is the most used app in the world. Most people use it as their preferred navigation app, especially Android users. Google Maps was first released in February 2005, and in 2015 it added functionality for offline mapping. This allows you to download a specific area or location, such as a city or town. More than 220 countries and territories provide Google Maps. Any location on the map can be selected and downloaded for use when offline.

The amount of space and data required to download maps offline is displayed in the Google Maps app. Without a data connection, offline maps expire after about 15 days or less. You must be connected to the Internet and have automatic updates enabled to maintain your maps offline. If your device is microSD card compatible, you can transfer data to your SD card. Select Device on SD card under Profile icon > Offline Maps > Gear icon > Storage preferences.

Google Maps can be used offline to search for places, locate businesses and get driving directions. When using Google Maps offline, features such as bike paths, pedestrian directions, and traffic information are not available. But in offline mode, turn by turn feature is supported. Google Maps provides recommendations for must-see locations from publishers, Google and local experts. With Google Maps’ indoor maps, you can easily navigate crowded areas like stadiums, shopping centers, and airports. When you use the map offline, the program contains data on arrival times, among other things.

Speaking of additional features, Google Maps offers hot spots and recent opening details for your search locations. To get more accurate information, you can also review areas you’ve been to and contribute photos of empty streets and locations. When you reconnect to the Internet, offline maps are instantly updated with the latest information. As a result, the regions you’ve downloaded for offline use will always have the most up-to-date information available.

Additionally, Google Maps provides tools for teamwork. Polls can be shared, and you can vote in real time. Lists of your favorite places can be created and shared with friends. Another standout feature is the user interface of the software. You can search and navigate to multiple locations with ease thanks to its simplicity and ease of use.

If you’re running Android, Google Maps is your smartphone’s default map app. If you have an iPhone, you can get the app from the Apple Store. Almost all devices have free access to Google Maps, including Android, Windows, iPhone, Mac and even Apple CarPlay.

Here’s a quick tutorial that shows you step-by-step how to use Google Maps offline.

• The Google Maps app on your smartphone should open.
• Select your profile picture by tapping on it in the top right corner.
• Select “Offline Maps”.
• Click on “Choose your own map”.
• Move the rectangle over the region you want to download. You can quickly zoom in and out of the desired area of the map by dragging the rectangle.
• Select “Download”. The map area will be downloaded and added to the section of maps that have been downloaded. Downloads only happen on Wi-Fi networks by default. To download maps via a cellular network, go to Settings > Offline Maps Settings > Download Preferences, select Via Wi-Fi or Mobile Network, and then click Save.
  
  
  
  Download Google Maps: Android | iOS

3) NaviMaps

Navimaps is an application developed by MapmyIndia exclusively for offline use. You can download maps from the app and use them offline. Only offline maps of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are currently supported by NaviMaps with 3D landmarks, terrain models, city models, and other features.

Instead of relying on user-uploaded data like Google Maps or other popular applications we’ve reviewed, NaviMaps uses a team of over 400 surveyors to visit sites and gather information about each one. Employs the team.

To download a map, simply select a state and country. After installing the program you have to select the nation and then the state within the nation. The map size and list of all states will be displayed by the app. Just select the state, then start downloading. To download the map, you will need an internet connection. Free lifetime map updates are available from NaviMaps, however the frequency of these updates is not specified.

You can use NaviMaps offline mode to view destinations and points of interest. Gas stations and parking lots are among the points of interest on the downloadable maps. When you use the app offline, it also provides voice-guided navigation in 10 regional languages besides English.

The app is straightforward and easy to use. Both iOS and Android platforms support NaviMaps. Directly from the app, you can download maps for offline use. Both free and premium versions of the app are available. The app’s offline maps, offline search, route calculation, points of interest, real-time traffic statistics, and other features are all included in the free edition. If you upgrade to the Premium edition, you’ll also get lane assist, speed alerts, POIs en route, automatic route change, house number search, 3D signs, and more.

Download The NaviMaps app: Android | iOS

4) Maps.Me

Another popular offline map application is MAPS.ME. This software offers free offline maps based on OpenStreetMaps data. Every day, millions of OpenStreetMap volunteers update the maps. The program also enables you to import, export, store and save favorite locations.

World maps are available for you to view and download. There are 345 countries and islands where MAPS.ME is accessible. You can choose driving, biking or walking routes using the app while offline. You can download maps for offline use and perform location-specific searches.

There are many interesting places with trails and paths. On the offline map, you can quickly find restaurants, retail malls, national parks, beach resorts, amusement parks, and more. You can organize places in the app by category. It also provides features for collaboration. You can share your favorite places with others and save them.

The program is open source and offers unlimited free map downloads. Your location is detected by the program, which downloads an offline map for that location. Additionally, you can search and download specific locations. The app will automatically ask you if you want to download the map when you zoom in on your point of interest. To start the download, simply tap on the location.

The OpenStreetMap data in the program is updated with a new version approximately every month, while there is no exact information on how often the map is updated. Free and easy-to-use software. Both iOS and Android operating systems support MAPS.ME.

Download MAPS.ME app: Android | iOS

5) Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps

For commuters and professional drivers, the Sygic app is perfect. It includes speed limit alerts, a dash cam, a head-on display, voice navigation, a mobile speed camera, and more. It also provides real-time traffic information and fastest route optimization.

The map can be used offline even without an internet connection. There are more than 200 different country maps available, and you can keep your favorite maps on your phone. You can navigate offline to many locations thanks to all the elements of Maps, including high-quality offline maps, millions of points of interest, and route calculation software, all stored on your phone.

Support for Sygic offline maps now includes landmarks, places to eat and more. You can search offline for places and attractions using the app. By using the search bar you can easily find the places you want to navigate to. Offline voice-activated turn-by-turn directions are another feature of the software. When you browse to a specific location, you can enable this option to get voice directions.

Sygic is accessible on both iOS and Android operating systems. For navigation, several languages are supported. Both free and paid versions of the Sygic app are available. The free version of the app includes offline maps, search, route calculation, points of interest, notifications for static speed cameras and other functions. Three times a year, the app offers free upgrades to offline maps. For more regular map updates, you can alternatively upgrade to the Premium Edition. Additionally, voice-guided navigation, turn-by-turn navigation, intersection view, smart cam, and other features require a premium membership.

Get Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps for iOS and Android.

6) OsmAnd – Maps & GPS Offline

One of the most popular and effective offline maps is OpenStreetMap (OSM). Millions of points of interest are available in offline mode with voice-guided turn-by-turn navigation and high-quality offline maps. Like other apps, you can use the map by downloading and saving data offline when you don’t have an online connection. Downloaded maps are displayed in the map preview, and you are able to download an unlimited number of offline maps.

Even without an Internet connection, you can plan a route to a destination. The app provides personalized navigation profiles for multiple vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, bicycles, public transportation, and more. In addition, it offers details about the route, such as distance traveled, speed, time left to drive, distance to turns, and more. You can tap on any location or well-known landmark to learn more about it, plan your trip and get directions.

The user interface is uncomplicated and straightforward. Moreover, the program allows plugins, which allow you to extend its functionality and add new features. The software has many popular plug-ins including slope, hill, contour lines, weather support, and more. You will need a premium subscription to install the map plugin. Additionally, the app has a travel guide feature that enables you to access complete trip reports.

Download OsmAnd – Maps & GPS Offline app: Android | iOS

7) Waze

Another favorite navigation app for Android and iPhone is called Waze. The main use of the app is navigation to different locations. While using the app, it shows you real-time gas prices, average speed, turn directions, real-time traffic and more. To help you choose the most efficient route and reach your destination, the app uses crowdsourced data and offers real-time traffic information from other users.

Waze doesn’t allow offline maps, unlike other apps that do. However, Waze can still be used without an Internet connection. As long as you are connected to the Internet, you can choose your destination. The Waze app will continue to work and offer basic navigation services even when you’re offline. Like the offline maps in Google Maps, Waze will still guide you to your location. Many of Waze’s features, such as real-time traffic warnings and information or updated routes, will not be available to you, however..

Download Waze App: Android | iOS

8) HERE WeGo

Another straightforward navigation software that works with offline maps is WeGo. The app’s UI is straightforward and user-friendly. You can use it to get offline maps of the entire nation or just a specific region. To download the app, go to the offline map function, search for a country or a specific location, and then click on the download option.

You can plan routes offline through the app. Without an Internet connection, you can set your location, navigate to a location, and then return to your starting point. On the office map, you can select specific locations to get turn-by-turn directions. Additionally, you can click on any area to learn more about it.

Currently, the app is limited to offline maps for car, walking, and bicycle routes. The map additionally shows gas stations, eateries, parking garages and more in offline mode. You can view real-time traffic data, share your position with others, and get public transportation information when you’re online. Additionally, you can quickly switch to Internet mode, get speed alerts, and more.

HERE WeGo is accessible on Android and iOS operating systems. By going to the “Download Maps” option in the app’s settings, you can download maps for offline use. There, you can select which regions to download. In case of internet outage, the application will immediately switch to offline mode. Manual activation of the offline map feature is also an option.

Download HERE WeGo app: Android | iOS

9) Avenza Maps

You can import and download custom maps created using Avenza Maps using OSM map data. In one place, you can browse and manage all offline maps. Avenza Maps also has its own map store, which offers a variety of maps from publishers including National Geographic, National Park Service, US Forest Service, and more, including hiking, topographic, cycling, city, nautical, travel, and more. Trail Maps. . Maps are added to your list after being downloaded offline.

OSM Basemap is currently in beta as we write this post, but support for it has recently been introduced by Avenza Maps. You can identify your location, record GPD tracks, calculate distances between locations by drawing on the app, take pictures, and most importantly, use the free edition of the program. Plus You can download maps for offline use. You can select a specific location on the map and download the map, just like with Google and Apple Maps. Also You can find out from the app how much data is required to download it. Your offline map list is automatically updated with downloaded maps.

Additionally, the software allows you to import custom maps. Maps can be imported directly from your device, cloud store, or URL. After the imported maps are added you can change or manage the apps from the list. Regarding the additional features of the app, it allows adding custom layers to the maps and also supports layers. Photos and notes can be added to any location on your map. No turn-by-turn navigation is available with Avenza Maps.

Although Avenza Maps is straightforward and easy to use, users may need some time to become familiar with importing and using maps effectively. The software is accessible on both iOS and Android operating systems.

Download Avenza Maps Offline: Android | iOS

10) MapFactor Navigator App

Professional and free offline map versions are available from MapFactor. Offline maps of more than 195 countries are available in the free version of Maps app, provided by OpenStreetMaps contributors. The free edition of Maps allows you to plan routes, find your coordinates, set up navigation, navigate to different locations, bookmark locations and more.

MapFactor includes features like alternative routes, head-up display, no ads, app color themes, live HD traffic information (over 80 countries), online search, remote control, and more. It also supports TomTom professional maps. To get access to expert maps, you can upgrade to the premium version

You can download a map and select an area like other apps. You can download the offline version of the program and search for many states and nations. The space and data required to download the app is shown by the app. When you don’t have an internet connection, you can use downloaded maps by adding them to your map list. For vehicles like cars, buses, trucks, bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians, the app provides routing mode. The offline edition of the app also has points of interest that help you locate and navigate to famous and practical places.

The app can be connected to Android Auto for use in automobiles enabling the ability to talk about other features. Map modes can be changed from day to night. Your favorite routes and locations can be saved for quick and easy access in the future. You are alerted about speed limits and cameras using the app.

Download MapFactor App: Android | iOS

The Best Offline GPS Navigation Apps Comparison

Offline vs. Online GPS Navigation: The Final Stop

Maps that can be used offline are very useful, especially in places with spotty or non-existent internet. You can search and download a specific location on an offline map using popular programs like Google Maps and Apple Maps. Apps with offline functionality include NaviMaps, Sygic Maps, and Maps.me. You can download complete state or country map offline using these apps. Finally, you can import your maps from multiple locations and organize them in one place using programs like Avenza.

While offline maps have many advantages, they also have disadvantages. These include limited navigation features, frequent updates, storage space requirements, and the inability to receive real-time information about traffic, road closures, and other dynamic changes in the area.

To make sure you don’t miss any important map updates, make sure you update offline maps regularly. I hope you find this information to be helpful. Please feel free to leave more recommendations in the comments section if you have any.

The Best Free Offline GPS Apps FAQs:

1) Is there any free offline navigation app?

Yes, you can use most of the apps on our list for free. It’s as easy as downloading the app, choosing a location and downloading. On your device, downloaded maps will be stored locally. When you don’t have an internet connection, you can still navigate using your downloaded maps.

2) Are real-time traffic updates still displayed on offline GPS applications?

No, offline maps do not display current traffic information. Map app is unable to get real-time traffic data because your smartphone is not online. Reconnecting to the Internet will allow you to see the latest traffic updates.

3) When should offline maps be updated?

It depends on each app’s offline map updates. If you frequently use applications for navigation, it is recommended to refresh offline maps once a week. On the other hand, some programs update the map location as soon as you’re online, while others only let you update offline maps a few times a year.

4) Can I use these GPS apps offline outside my country of residence?

Yes, offline maps are supported by the majority of the apps on this list worldwide. You have the option to search for an exact location or download a map for offline use after selecting a specific area.

5) How much space is required on average for offline maps?

Before downloading a map, most apps indicate how much storage space is required. It varies by app. The length of the area you download determines the size of the offline maps. Always confirm how much storage space is required before downloading a map.

6) What are the disadvantages of using offline GPS apps?

Following are major disadvantages of using offline GPS apps:

Map updates: Online maps are more current than offline maps.

Size: The storage space on your smartphone can be significantly occupied by offline maps.

Features: Every function in offline GPS app is not available in online navigation app.

7) Which GPS app is best for me to use offline?

Your specific needs and preferences will determine which offline GPS app is best for you. Here are some things to consider when choosing an offline GPS app:

Features: Think about the features you need, such as directions for public transportation, lane advice, or 3D maps.

Map coverage: Confirm whether the app has maps of the places you will visit before using it.

Size: Take into account how much storage space you have on your device and the size of the offline maps in the app.

Cost: While some offline GPS programs are available for free, others charge for additional capabilities.

8) Can I use offline mapping applications for outdoor activities like hiking?

In fact, many offline map apps provide features designed specifically for outdoor activities, such as topographic maps, hiking trails, and points of interest related to outdoor recreation.