For those of us lucky (or unlucky as you may see it) Google have made a couple of updates to their mapping software that you probably know as Google Maps for Android users. The main feature is offline mapping. In other words the ability to download portions (or tiles as they are sometimes known) whilst you have a connection and to recover them when you don't.
I've long hankered after a decent mapping application that can be used as a backup to the map and compass I prefer to use. GPS units tend to be quite expensive and there is no real need for me to have yet another gizmo in my pocket that needs electricity. Yes it would be lovely and would almost always get round the common mistake of missing out on Burnbank Fell, but I can't help but think it takes away a bit of the fun.
Perhaps one day.
Offline maps provides a step into the world of using your phone where there is no signal and hopefully it will help to bring this feature into the 'must have' apps for phones. I'll try it out next time I'm out and about and see just how useful it really is. Not forgetting its the lake district and the phone is less than waterproof. Not to mention quite heavy on battery drain.
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