The Limits of "Offline" Navigation: Why Google Maps Falls Short Google Maps touts its offline feature as a safety net for areas with no cell service, but a closer look reveals significant limitations.
When navigating without a signal, users are often forced to rely on guesswork rather than turn by turn guidance. One notable shortcoming is the app's restriction of turn by turn guidance to driving mode only.
Pedestrians and cyclists must use the map as a reference point rather than following step by step instructions.