I found a free Google Maps alternative that doesn't track my location (or kill my phone battery)
Source: ZDNet
ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Privacy‑first: no tracking or data collection.
- Offline maps and turn‑by‑turn directions save battery.
- Free, open‑source app for Android and iOS.
Also: Waze vs. Google Maps: I tested two of the best navigation apps, and there’s a clear winner
Open‑source map app
CoMaps is a fork of Organic Maps, which itself originated from MapsWithMe (later Maps.me). All of these projects use OpenStreetMap data.
CoMaps is available for both Android and iOS and offers:
- Offline search and route planning (with or without a network connection)
- Lower battery drain than Google Maps
- No identifying people, no tracking, and no data collection
- Free and ad‑free
- Voice‑guided directions
- Access to offline Wikipedia articles and subway maps
- Ability to mark and save locations
- Export/import support for KML, KMZ, and GPX formats
- Built‑in map editor that helps improve OpenStreetMap data
The app launched on Google Play and the Apple App Store around July 3 and is already functional enough to serve as a solid Google Maps replacement.
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Google Maps differences
- Map download required – You must download maps for the areas you need, which enables offline use, saves storage, and lets you choose only the regions you want.
- Outdoor mode – A special mode for hiking and bike riding that displays trails, points of interest, campsites, and water sources.
How to download a map
- Tap the three‑horizontal‑line menu button at the bottom of the main page.
- Select Download Maps.
- Tap +, locate the desired region, and press Download map.
Downloading maps ensures you can use the app without a network connection.
After the download, CoMaps works like Google Maps, offering automated turn‑by‑turn directions.
Units of measurement – By default CoMaps uses kilometers. To switch to miles, go to Menu → Settings → Measurement units and select Miles.
Also: How to blur your house on Google Street View (and 4 reasons why people do it)
My new default app
CoMaps has become my default navigation app because it respects my privacy and conserves battery life. If privacy is important to you, you’ll likely appreciate it as well.
You can install CoMaps from: