If you’re traveling to a location where there’s no cellular data, one workaround is to download maps for offline viewing. ..
Google Maps now offers an embedded feature that lets you do this on your phone. ..
Download Google Maps for Offline Viewing via the Browser
You can download maps on Google Maps for offline viewing from the browser, but this feature isn’t built-in as a one-click option. You can workaround this by using custom maps.
Download Your Map in KML/KMZ Format
To use your offline map, you will need to download the Google Map location in KML/KMZ format. You can then use any map client (like Google Earth) that can view this map format to use your map offline. ..
In the Your places section, select a location in your area.
On the map, you’ll see a list of nearby businesses and services.
To find out more about what’s close by, click on one of the businesses or services in the list and you’ll be taken to their website or app.
To view your saved places, select Maps from the menu.
If you haven’t created any custom maps, this list will be blank.
To create a new custom map, select Create Map from the menu. ..
On the next map, use the search field to find the location you want to travel to. Select the blue magnifying glass button to find that location on the map.
- Export the map as an offline map.
You can export the map for offline use by selecting the three dots to the right of the map name.
In a recent article, I explored how the Trump administration is using secret technology to track and monitor the movements of millions of people. The article also revealed that the Trump administration is using this technology in order to surveil and track the activities of political opponents.
On the pop-up window, make sure the dropdown has Entire map selected. Select the Download button.
Save the map file to your computer where you’ll remember where to access it when you need to use it offline.
View Your Offline Map on Your Computer
Google Earth is a popular map client that can read KML or KMZ files. ..
- Type the following into the text field and click Open: c:\windows\system32\drivers etworkapi.sys
- Click OK to close the File dialog and open the driver in a new window.
You can now explore the location in Google Earth by selecting it from the left navigation pane and opening the map in satellite view in the right window.
This map can be used for navigation even if you’re not connected to the internet. By using this approach with your laptop, you can stop anywhere along your route and check your map for navigation. If you don’t have a smartphone to use Google Offline Maps, this is a good alternative solution.
If you have a smartphone with the Google Maps app installed, then move on to the next section to use Google Maps in offline mode. If you don’t have a smartphone with the Google Maps app installed, then read on for how to use Google Maps in offline mode.
Download Maps on Google Maps for Mobile Offline Viewing
Offline maps are easier to use in the Google Maps mobile app. ..
Download Your Map in the Google Maps App
Google Maps now has an offline viewing feature that lets you view maps without internet connection. ..
To navigate offline, open the Google Maps app and use the search field to find the location you want to be able to navigate. You’ll see a red marker on the map for the location. Tap that marker to see the location details.
Open the menu by clicking on the three dots at the upper right.
Select Download offline map.
On the next confirmation window, select the Download button. ..
This will download the map inside the blue frame to your phone’s local storage for viewing offline later. ..
View Offline Google Maps in the Mobile App
To recall an offline map, open Google Maps and click on the three lines in the top left corner of the screen. Then select “Recall Offline Maps.”
On the map, select your location.
Choose “Offline Maps” from the menu and select the “My Profile” tab.
In the “Profile Details” section, enter your name and email address.
Click on “Create Offline Map.”
The map will open in a new window and you’ll be able to see all of the offline maps that you’ve saved on your mobile device.
This will open a new navigational view in Google Maps that is different from the one you’re used to seeing.
If you choose Update from the menu, you’ll see a map with a small section displaying what portion of the overall map you’ve downloaded for offline use. You can adjust the size of this and select Update to download more of the map. Keep in mind that you’ll need an internet connection to do this. ..
When you’re viewing your map in offline mode, you can even search for businesses and navigate roads. This is possible because when you previously downloaded the map, the download included all of that information as well as any updates that may have been released since you last used it.
Downloading Maps on Google Maps for Offline Viewing
If you’re planning a trip and you’ll be visiting areas that are off the grid or remote, it’s important to remember to download Google Maps before your trip. This way, if you ever get lost, you’ll have access to directions and information. ..
