Mapping is one of the more powerful tools that a tablet can be used for. However, more often than not the data used for the map needs to come from the internet. This is pretty hopeless if you haven’t got access to the internet when you you want to use the map. Some apps may allow you to download the data relevant to a specific area so enabling you to access the map without having internet access. In addition to accessing the data your device will need to know where you are which is acheived through triangulation of your position. this can be done roughly with mobile phone signals or otherwise will use GPS satellites (being on the internet will also help locate you).
Google Maps app – this is linked to the tablet google account and so will remember history, recent places and even (if it’s turned on) the location and movement of the tablet minute by minute.
The map that appears when you start the app will attempt to locate you and on the screen you can search for any place, get directions and recent places.
To the left of the google icon (when the app is open are three lines/dots. tapping this will bring up a series of options, including:
- Settings
- Help/Tutorials
- Tips and Tricks
Note the little back arrow that now appears next to the google icon. Tapping Satellite toggles between the different views.
Settings gives you a large number of options, including About, Terms and Privacy which is where you can go online to properly remove recents etc.
This can also be done by going onto the internet, logging into your google account, choosing account, data tools and then viewing account data.
How to get offline maps: While on the internet (preferably with broadband) simply display the map you want to store. In the search box simply type in: “ok maps” and it will download the map onto your device. You can also tap below the search bar where is says “Make this map available offline”. Obviously the bigger the area, the bigger the download.
Google Earth app gives you even more, but you need a good internet connection to get all the data.
Sat Nav: Google maps now comes with directions and voice instructions. Having created your route, tap it and then tap start. Note the new menu option at the bottom left of the screen and the X on the seft which will take you back to the map. You can follow the steps on the map by tapping on the arrow keys on the bottom right hand side of the screen (not navigation mode).
An alternative to Googel navigation is CoPilot. Although not free this app does come with maps which means you don’t need to have access to the internet to use it.
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