Google has updated Maps to work offline. To use the feature, users can search for the location on the Maps app and select the download option or can go to "Offline Areas" in the menu and tap the “+” button. The app allows users to select the area of the map which they want to take offline as well as provides an estimate of how much disk space it will consume. The offline map size ranges based on the area size selected. We couldn't select area larger than say little over half the state of Maharashtra, with the map size topping off at 400MB. The smallest selectable area on the map comes in at 150MB. Users can save multiple offline areas, however the saved areas ‘expire’ in 30 days. We aren't quite sure what that means, if the data will be auto deleted, or if it will require an update while users still continue to use it offline. Google mentions that the Maps will automatically switch to offline maps if available, when in areas with spotty service or no connectivity. The maps will also switch back to online mode when in network so as to provide users with live traffic conditions and other real time features. The maps can only be downloaded when on WiFi, which kind of makes sense since at minimum the offline map seems to need a 100MB download. On the other hand, users in good connection areas moving to spotty connection areas might also want to…
