Description
Google Maps Go is a lightweight version of Google maps which works as Progressive Web App (PWA). This version uses about 100 times less storage space than the full-blown executable sidearm and runs on devices with very limited memory (ram) or intermittent network access, without losing essential functionality positioning is more important now that real-time traffic, step-by-step turn directions and all things public transit (train, bus ferry).
The app is dependent on Chrome. It lets users search in the millions of places addresses and phone numbers and find reviews, food photos saved to locations that can be accessed later. Google maps Go supports 70+ languages, offers hourly updates of covering Italy and access to full cover maps (satellite & terrain), has public transport info for >20,000 cities including directions through the app similar like UBER tracks multi-city along with business data.
Features
1. Ultra-Lightweight Design: Takes approximately 100 times less storage on devices than the full Google Maps app, and is optimized specifically for running on phones with a lot of memory pressure as well as slow or unstable networks.
2. GPS Position & Live Traffic: Displays your location also as displays of live traffic information and site visitors maps, so that you can find out the quickest route.
3. Multi-Modal Route Planning: Find best route in two wheeler(motorcycle/scooter), metro,Buses, Taxi,walk and ferry & step by Step Directions with the preview of your complete routes.
4. Live Public Transit Schedules: Provides live public transport schedules for trains, buses and subways in over 20K cities around the world.
5. Place Search & Discovery: Find local restaurants, businesses, gas stations ATMs and other places nearby; browse addresses numbers reviews food photos.
Review
Somewhat surprisingly, it's a solid lightweight version of the full Google Maps app. If you have an older Android phone that has storage issues and some god awful internet connection, this app is a life saver.
First up, the app is very speedy and lightweight. It occupies 100 times less storage than the full Google Maps app, and it runs seamlessly even on low-end devices with little RAM. The startup time is basically instant and the interface, clean with a spacious design makes navigation feel less cumbersome.
The fundamental navigation functions are solid. Users get turn by turn directions with voice guided driving, walking and cool two wheeler options. You can choose the real-time traffic updates, and it is quite trustworthy that helps us to prevent the congested area by finding a relatively faster route. It tracks the accurate public transport schedules for 20,000 over cities and helped me with my daily commute.
There is also the option to search for places, such as restaurants and gas stations, businesses along with phone numbers, address of business alongside client reviews photo. The app covers more than 70 languages and includes maps for about 200 countries/territories, making it travel-friendly too.
But the app does need to run Chrome. However, if you do not have Chrome installed this has to be done through the web version. You have a dependency here and it can be annoying if you want to use any other browser.
Google Maps Go is a good option for those with older or low-end Android phones, little storage space or inconsistent networks. It provides you with the core map and navigation functionality as fast and simple without weighing your device. Granted, it does not offer advanced features like offline map downloads or lane guidance and live location sharing (actually Waze finally allows both now), but it's capable of covering the basics decently.
