Google Maps Offline: What Features Are Available and What Aren't

Google Maps is a handy tool for navigating unfamiliar areas, but it has its limitations when used offline. One of those limitations is that real-time information such as traffic congestion and proactive detours are not available. However, users can still access turn-by-turn navigation within saved zones, although this feature is only available for vehicles.

In addition to navigation, saved maps can also provide information on points of interest in a given area. These points of interest include business listings with their addresses and phone numbers, as well as operating hours and average star ratings.

Saved maps can be useful for travelers who know they will be out of coverage or have limited data plans. They can range in size from megabytes to gigabytes, depending on the area being saved, and can include a variety of information such as bike-share and ride-hailing integrations, although these are not available offline.