Staying on Track
We use different types of apps on our smartphones every day. It has become part of our life; without these apps we could get lost, and it would be harder to communicate to our co-workers, friends, and family. One of the most frequently used apps is GPS. By using location services and internet, you can navigate your way through any city.
If you want to travel or go to a place you're not familiar with, GPS apps are incredibly useful. It can show you traffic delays, travel time, distance, and route options. While these apps are getting popular, some don't work in remote places, and they require an internet connection to function properly.
Now, let’s take a look at the best GPS apps for 2018.
Google Maps
Free | iOS, Android
Google developed Google Maps, which is now one of the most trusted and frequently used GPS apps in the world. You can get standard turn by turn directions, live traffic updates, accurate information about public schedules, and information about nearby businesses.
This app also includes street view and satellite view, and users can save maps for offline use. However, maps that are downloaded offline must be updated regularly. Since Google Maps is the best GPS app, it is automatically installed on your phone.
Waze
Free | iOS, Android
Waze was developed by Waze Inc., and is a crowdsourced, community-based traffic and navigation app. This app allows users to report traffic, road hazards, road closures, and more. It allows you to share your ETA with contacts, and has a voiced turn by turn-based navigation system.
Waze is very helpful in areas that have high traffic volumes because it shows you various route options, navigates quickly, reports police locations, and shows traffic speeds during rush hour. However, Waze uses a lot of battery power and doesn't always get directions right, especially when used offline.
HERE
Free | iOS, Android
HERE, a competitor of Google Maps, was developed by Nokia and can be used both online and offline. It has a simple user interface with mapping options all over the world, and features traffic information and public transit maps. It also has a map creator that lets you alter maps to create a desired route.
HERE has interactive 3D maps for airports and shopping areas all over the world. The best feature, though, is that it enables you to store downloaded maps so you can open it even when you're offline.
Maps.ME
Free | iOS, Android
Maps.ME is a free app, and is supported by 345 countries and islands that can be downloaded for both Android and iOS. This app includes offline maps, the ability to bookmark locations, and detailed maps of destinations such as shopping malls and restaurants. However, there are some bugs, but they won't really impact the user experience.
This app is free, and has no in-app purchases.
MapFactor
Free with in-app purchases | iOS, Android
MapFactor is one of the lowkey GPS apps on the market. MapFactor includes basic navigation and GPS features which means you can get offline maps that are updated monthly. You can pay for additional features like alternative routes, live HD traffic information (available on selected countries), and disabled advertisements.
It also has a speed limit, camera warnings, 2D and 3D map display, route avoidance, and customization. MapFactor is not that bad in terms of functionality, but if you want to get the best out of it you have to pay for the premium version.
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Sygic: GPS Navigation and Maps
Free with in-app purchases | iOS, Android
Sygic is a popular GPS app, and has been downloaded over 50 million times. It has all the usual features like voice-guided directions, turn by turn navigation, alternate routes, and a speed limit display. You can unlock more features by buying its lifetime license, which costs $24.99-$43.99.
CityMaps2Go
Free | iOS
CityMaps2Go is the best GPS app for iPad and iPhone. This app can save a detailed version of your map for offline use, and can be used without data connectivity. You can organize future trips by making a list of maps, and explore millions of places. CityMaps2Go is definitely the main navigation and GPS app for many Apple users.
GPS Tracks
$3.99 | iOS
GPS Tracks is a navigation and GPS app for iPhone users who like to spend time outdoors, hiking or mountain climbing. It tracks your movement very easily, especially during outdoor activities. One of its main features syncs data from OSX and iOS.
This app does not require an account, so once you download it you are ready to go! Other features of GPS Tracks include recorded tracks and waypoints, viewing track details, importing and following saved routes, and it’s also compatible with the Apple Watch.
Polaris GPS Navigation
Free with in-app purchases | Android
Polaris GPS Navigation is an all-in-one navigation app for Android. It features multiple coordinate formats, trial recording, a unique waypoint management system, turn-by-turn directions, and can be used for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, camping, and hunting.
The main feature of this app is that it has access to Google Maps, OpenStreet Map, MapQuest maps, and Cycle Route Maps. Polaris GPS Navigation might look old, but it works well.