Google has started to make a new feature, which it announced at the launch of Pixel 9 and Pixel Watch 3, available for Wear OS-based smartwatches. With this new feature, users will now be able to use Google Maps without an internet connection. This feature, which allows offline use of the Google Maps application on smartwatches with Wear OS operating system such as Galaxy Watch 4 and Galaxy Watch Ultra, offers an important innovation for situations where there is no internet access or no need for a smartphone connection.
This new offline map support for Google Maps was first announced by 9To5Google and is gradually being rolled out to Wear OS-based smartwatches. The feature allows navigation even when the device does not have an internet connection or when users do not have their phones with them. When the latest beta version of the Google Maps app (11.140.0701.W) is installed, the app explains how to use the offline map feature when it is first opened. This feature automatically downloads map data for areas that users frequently visit, allowing the app to remain functional even without an internet connection.
Map data is automatically downloaded when the Google Maps app is opened on the smartwatch, and map data is automatically synchronized when paired with a smartphone. This synchronization occurs when the smartwatch is charging and the Wi-Fi connection is on. This allows users to access up-to-date map data without an internet connection on their smartwatch.
Accessing the new offline maps section in the Google Maps app is quite easy. When the app is opened, the ‘Offline Maps’ section, located just above the ‘Settings’ tab, allows the user to view all downloaded map areas and the size of this data. Users can also manage these maps via their phones using the ‘Manage on Phone’ option. When the smartwatch is in offline mode, a cloud icon appears at the top of the screen, indicating that the device is not connected to the internet.
This new feature offers great convenience, especially for Galaxy Watch users based on Wear OS who do not have an LTE connection. Now, users will be able to benefit from navigation services with just their smartwatches without carrying their phones with them. This stands out as a significant advantage for users who want to leave their smartphones at home while doing sports or traveling.
Over the past few years, Google has added many new features to its Google Maps app, enhancing the experience for Wear OS-based smartwatch users. These updates include the ability to use Google Maps without a phone, public transportation options, a new tile called ‘Search and Go’, and two new watch face complications. This new offline map feature will further expand the use of Google Maps and offer a more flexible navigation experience by reducing users’ reliance on their devices.
As a result, this offline map support offered by Google for Wear OS-based smartwatches offers an important solution for users, especially in cases where internet access is limited or completely cut off. Thanks to this innovative feature offered by Google Maps, users will now be able to have a more free and independent navigation experience. This developing technology once again reveals how functional smartwatches have become in daily use.