New Offline Search, Turn-By-turn Navigation Features Arriving in Google Maps Soon

Apart from new OS updates, Google at the I/O 2015 also announced improvements and new features to its existing app, Maps. The app would be soon equipped with offline search and will also feature a complete voice-based turn-by-turn navigation even while in offline mode.

Both of the aforementioned features will arrive by the end of this year.

Apparently, the new features of Google Maps are aimed at "emerging markets" where mobile Internet coverage is spotty and data charges expensive.

Google has previously introduced offline rerouting during navigation, letting users reroute without any Internet connection.

These features will also be helpful to users who are traveling to areas with poor connectivity. It might come handy for users who are searching for directions when traveling in underground metros or via flight.

Offline line feature in Google Maps first debuted in 2012.

At the conference Google also unveiled native Maps app for Android Wear devices. It also announced updates for its Google Places API for iOS.