Google Maps' Offline Directions Now Available; Release Date Announced!

The Google Maps app has been upgraded to be able to provide directions to its users when not connected to the internet, according to BBC.

Before the upgrade, using the application in offline mode only allowed panning and zooming.

Now, the software allows devices to search for specific destinations and access to information like telephone numbers, business' locations and phone numbers while offline, reveals CNN Money.

Users are also able to access turn-by-turn driving directions because of the update.

To be able to use the new features, Google Maps users will have to download a map for a specific area before going offline.

Once this is done, Google will automatically kick information offline mode when the user is in an area without internet service, reports Time.

When users return to an area with service, the app will then transition back to online mode.

According to Google, storing the San Francisco Bay area would require about 200MB and downloading most of Greater London would take up 380 megabytes on a device.

Owners do not have to worry about locations being out of date because the company will regularly update maps over time.

Once every 15 days, the offline map will be updated; so long as the handset is connected to wi-fi and is plugged into a charger. The user may override these restrictions.

The offline mode has limitations and absent functions. People cannot switch to satellite view and won't be able to access walking or public transport-based routes.

They also will not be able to see reviews people have posted about businesses and restaurants. Photos generated by users are also unavailable.

Google Offline Maps is available in more than 200 countries.

Previously mentioned during its I/O conference in May, Google did not offer a release time until now. The new features will be available starting Nov. 10 for Android and the iOS update later this year.