Being able to use Maps offline is a huge benefit, as sometimes there is no network coverage or Internet available. Offline access to Maps also can save you considerable amounts when roaming.
Offline Trip Guide allows users to use their iPhone/iPod Touch maps offline. The maps are stored locally on the device, so if network/Internet coverage is unavailable, maps will still function.
Offline Trip Guide is also useful for users traveling outside of their home wireless country where their carriers will charge excessive roaming fees to provide network coverage. Because the app uses Google, the app works anywhere that Google Maps works.
The recent v1.1 release included a choice to save walking directions in addition to driving. However, the app does not have transit directions as the standard iPhone/iPod Touch Google Maps app does.
As useful as the app is, it is very new and still needs some work. For example, there is no way to zoom. Plotting directions is great but if you need to zoom into a specific street corner or whatever the case may be, the app does not support this.
Furthermore, directions must be inputted while having an Internet connection. This is really important to understand, as this is part of the initial setup, and if you’re on the road already and away from network coverage, the Offline Trip Guide app will not work.
While the app is not perfect, it is headed in the right direction. Keep an eye on this one, as it can only get better from here.
Offline Trip Guide is available in the App Store for $0.99..
