Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/OsmAnd
Stepping away from Google Maps might seem like a nightmare at first, especially if you've been using the app for more than a few days. Google Maps is a feature-complete solution, so finding a worthy alternative is quite a challenge.
OsmAnd is one of the best apps that can replace Google Maps, and thanks to the latest update for Apple devices, it provides iPhone wonders with an intriguing pack of improvements.
Version 4.5, available for download right now from the Apple Store, comes with a completely redesigned widget experience.
OsmAnd's integrated widget experience pushes things even further, offering users extra configuration power to customize the navigation experience within the app. Thanks to this update, OsmAnd now allows changing the widget position and enabling grouping by pages.
The new OsmAnd version also comes with a redesigned configuration screen and options to create a free backup of favorite locations, settings, and OSM edits. The data will be updated to OsmAnd Cloud, and users won't have to pay a single cent for using this feature.
In terms of new features, OsmAnd 4.5 lands on iPhones with several notable changes. One of the things I like the most about this update is that it lets you switch between 2D and 3D modes with separate buttons. It might seem like a minor change, but this new approach makes using OsmAnd a lot more straightforward, especially because it's such a complex app that throws a lot of information (and a somewhat busy interface, too) at its users.
The developing team says users would also get 3D relief and a CAI scale for "difficulty classification of the routes." Last but not least, the update adds OAuth authorization for the OpenStreetMap Editing plugin.
Some of these changes might sound like rocket science for some users, making OsmAnd way too complex for someone who wants a straightforward Google Maps alternative. However, OsmAnd is aimed at all user categories, as you can simply launch the app, configure a destination, and start navigating. But at the same time, OsmAnd offers more advanced capabilities that power users will enjoy.
OsmAnd joins the Apple party with a full feature package including CarPlay support. This means you can move the navigation to the infotainment screen in your car, though this new update doesn't bring anything new on this front and focuses on the iPhone experience.
OsmAnd also includes a night mode, offline map support, and GPX tracks, letting you plan routes, share them with the community or one of your friends, and import them into the app. Like Google Maps, OsmAnd supports multiple navigation modes, so in addition to the standard driving profile, you can also use it for motorcycles, walking, public transportation, bikes, and even boats.
Version 4.5, available for download right now from the Apple Store, comes with a completely redesigned widget experience.
OsmAnd's integrated widget experience pushes things even further, offering users extra configuration power to customize the navigation experience within the app. Thanks to this update, OsmAnd now allows changing the widget position and enabling grouping by pages.
The new OsmAnd version also comes with a redesigned configuration screen and options to create a free backup of favorite locations, settings, and OSM edits. The data will be updated to OsmAnd Cloud, and users won't have to pay a single cent for using this feature.
In terms of new features, OsmAnd 4.5 lands on iPhones with several notable changes. One of the things I like the most about this update is that it lets you switch between 2D and 3D modes with separate buttons. It might seem like a minor change, but this new approach makes using OsmAnd a lot more straightforward, especially because it's such a complex app that throws a lot of information (and a somewhat busy interface, too) at its users.
The developing team says users would also get 3D relief and a CAI scale for "difficulty classification of the routes." Last but not least, the update adds OAuth authorization for the OpenStreetMap Editing plugin.
Some of these changes might sound like rocket science for some users, making OsmAnd way too complex for someone who wants a straightforward Google Maps alternative. However, OsmAnd is aimed at all user categories, as you can simply launch the app, configure a destination, and start navigating. But at the same time, OsmAnd offers more advanced capabilities that power users will enjoy.
OsmAnd joins the Apple party with a full feature package including CarPlay support. This means you can move the navigation to the infotainment screen in your car, though this new update doesn't bring anything new on this front and focuses on the iPhone experience.
OsmAnd also includes a night mode, offline map support, and GPX tracks, letting you plan routes, share them with the community or one of your friends, and import them into the app. Like Google Maps, OsmAnd supports multiple navigation modes, so in addition to the standard driving profile, you can also use it for motorcycles, walking, public transportation, bikes, and even boats.
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