Save Maps Offline On The New Google Maps For iPhone, iPad & iPod Touch

Google recently updated the Google Maps app on iOS. The update brought forward improved features including better support for the iPad. However you can not save maps offline using the app, except if you follow the step-by-step guide in this article. Google Maps has a hidden easter egg which lets you cache maps. It's not as convenient as a built in offline maps feature, but it does the job.

All you have to do is to move and zoom so that your screen covers the area you want to cache. Then tap in the search bar at the top and type in 'Ok Maps'.

The map will then get cached. If you see a screen like the one below then it means it's working.

After the map is pre-loaded you'll get a little message at the bottom of the screen telling you that the map has been successfully cached. You can now view this map without an internet connection.

This feature isn't too convenient to use. More importantly though, you should be aware that to search and get directions you'll still need an internet connection, even for the areas which you have previously cached. Hopefully Google will update the app and make offline usage easier for the users.