CoMaps: A Privacy-Focused FOSS Offline Navigation App

CoMaps provides offline navigation without data collection

CoMaps is a free and open-source software (FOSS) navigation application designed for hiking, biking, and driving. It enables users to search for waypoints and navigate routes using only GPS, eliminating the need for mobile data while ensuring that no personal information is tracked or collected. The application has been audited by Exodus to verify its privacy claims.

Core Technical Features and Data Sourcing

OpenStreetMap Integration

CoMaps uses OpenStreetMap (OSM) as its primary data source. Because OSM is a community-driven project, the map data is continuously improved by volunteers. Users can contribute to the underlying map data using tools like StreetComplete, which gamifies the process of adding local details such as accessibility information and staircase counts.

Offline Functionality and Battery Efficiency

To support users in remote areas, CoMaps allows for the downloading of map data over Wi-Fi to avoid cellular data charges. The app is engineered for battery efficiency to prevent the drain typically associated with high-intensity navigation apps. It also supports the export and sharing of paths via .gpx files, making it highly effective for trail navigation.

Project Origins and Governance

CoMaps is a fork of Organic Maps and Maps.me. While it is positioned as a community-driven project, some users have noted historical concerns regarding the governance of the projects it was forked from, specifically regarding financial management and the inclusion of proprietary components by small groups of shareholders.

User Experience and Performance Trade-offs

Strengths in Specialized Navigation

Users report that CoMaps is particularly effective for biking and hiking due to its ability to easily add stops and permanently save biking paths. The "record track" feature is also highlighted as a valuable tool for outdoor activities.

Limitations Compared to Proprietary Alternatives

When compared to services like Google Maps or Waze, CoMaps lacks real-time data. Specifically, users have identified the following gaps:

• Live Traffic: The absence of real-time traffic density and live updates is the primary reason some users maintain a secondary proprietary app.
• Timing Accuracy: Some users have noted that timing estimates can be off by 5-15 minutes on longer drives compared to Apple Maps, likely due to the lack of live traffic integration.
• Business Data: There are questions regarding the freshness of business data (opening hours, phone numbers) compared to the network effects of Google's ecosystem.

Privacy and Distribution

For users prioritizing a completely open stack, the F-Droid version of the app is recommended to ensure the absence of proprietary blobs, making it a popular choice for GrapheneOS users.