How to: cache maps for offline use in the new Google Maps update

July 10, 2013

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cached_google_maps Since the new Google Maps began to roll out last night, the first major complaint has been the loss of support for cached maps. Have no fear, Google has you covered. Apparently, there's an easter egg that the developers built in to the new version of the app that allows you to cache portions of maps for later use. All you need to do is follow the steps below:

Zoom in on the map to view to the region you want to cache
Tap the search bar
Type “Okay maps” or “OK maps”
Tap the search button

And there you go, that portion of the map is cached for offline use! It's surprising that this wasn't built in to the app via a “Make available offline” button like the previous version, but it's a relief the feature hasn't disappeared completely.

Source: TechCrunch

Aditya Thawardas Author

Born in India and raised in Tennessee, Aditya is currently a marketing/finance student in the College of Business Administration at the University of Pittsburgh. Aditya started off in the world of smartphones with a first generation iPhone, until he realized what he was doing and quickly switched to Android. He then got an HTC Aria, followed by a Samsung Captivate, and today he is a proud Samsung Galaxy S III owner. Aside from writing for Talk Android, he occasionally writes for the Tennessee Titans blog MusicCityMiracles.com, as is a huge Titans fan. In addition to the Titans, Aditya also loves all Pitt Panthers teams, the Nashville Predators, Memphis Grizzlies, and Pittsburgh Pirates. He also enjoys playing the guitar.