Getting lost in a new city can be entertaining, but not being able to determine your location or find a certain restaurant can be a little frustrating. That annoyance is due to end with the announcement that Google Maps will finally be available offline.

This big news was announced almost six months ago at Google I/O in May, but from today you will finally be able to enjoy the extra benefits of offline maps. As long as you are an Android user that is; iOS users, you will have to wait a little longer.

Saving certain areas on Google Maps is an option that has existed since 2012, but the latest update will allow you to do so much more. From today, Android users will be able to enjoy a variety of Google Map features all while being offline.

Offline Google Map features

Maps offline setup via Google

Features include the ability to search for specific destinations, like a certain restaurant or hotel. Not only will you be able to find a specific place, but the offline version will also provide you with additional information about that place like contact details, operating hours as well as star ratings. Due to space constraints no user reviews or photos of the businesses will be shown while offline.

You will also be able to get turn-by-turn driving instructions to ensure you avoid getting lost even when you are offline. The current version does not include walking or transit directions, but as Google has said, they are working on other features that will be available offline, so this could change for future versions of the offline version of Google Maps.

How to use offline navigation and search on Maps for Android

Maps offline navigation: How it works, via Google

You can search for either a city, county or country and download the area easily by tapping “Download”. Alternatively, you can go to “Offline Areas” in the Google Maps menu and tap on the “+” button.

Downloading of areas will not use up your data either as the default will ensure that Google Maps only downloads the area when you are on a Wi-Fi connection.

Once you enter your location with either no connectivity or limited service Google Maps will automatically enter offline mode. When you are back in an area with a connection, then it will automatically go back online.

If you are an Android user, you can update your version of Google Maps for Android today and start enjoying the benefits of offline navigation. iOS users, be patient.

Main image credit: Thos Ballantyne, Flickr