Waze users have recently been facing a puzzling issue that's causing a lot of confusion. Some see a message that says, "Using offline maps," even when connected to the internet. It doesn't make sense because Waze doesn't actually support offline maps.
Waze users have recently been facing a puzzling issue that's causing a lot of confusion. Some see a message that says, "Using offline maps," even when connected to the internet.Christopher Furlong/Getty Images
Encountering "Using Offline Maps" Message
Waze, a well-known navigation app, recently puzzled users with an odd message on their screens, as reported by Phone Arena. Unlike Google Maps, Waze depends on an internet connection to fetch and share traffic details.
So, if users travel to places with weak cell service, the app can't offer current traffic updates or route suggestions. It's a simple concept: no internet equals no up-to-date traffic info or alternate routes. Yet, some Waze users saw a strange message saying "Using offline maps." The twist? Waze doesn't support offline maps.
Adding to the confusion, the message seems to pop up even when Waze is online with a good cellular connection. Users have reported that the message persists even after Waze goes offline briefly and then reconnects to the internet. It's important to note that whenever this message appears, Waze can't upload traffic data, even if the device has internet access.
For Waze users grappling with the frustrating "Using offline maps" message, even when their phones boast a strong cellular connection, there's hope for resolution. A simple trick involves toggling Airplane mode on and off swiftly, a maneuver that often banishes the perplexing prompt and restores Waze's functionality.
Alternatively, force-closing the app by swiping it off the screen in the recent apps carousel might do the trick. Despite these workarounds, the mystery lingers: Is Waze actively addressing this issue? Only time will tell.
Users have taken to the Waze support page to express their frustration with this ongoing issue, with some even considering switching to Google Maps as an alternative. Interestingly, both apps are owned by Google, but they differ in functionality. Unlike Waze, Google Maps offers support for offline maps, allowing users to navigate without an internet connection.
While Google Maps focuses on providing quick and safe directions from point A to point B, along with suggestions for dining, accommodations, and entertainment at the destination, Waze prioritizes the journey itself. Leveraging crowdsourced data, Waze takes a unique approach to navigation compared to Google Maps.
The issue stems from a problem with the app's algorithm, which becomes more pronounced as the number of users increases. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this problem, as changes in traffic patterns and road closures have made it challenging for the algorithm to provide accurate navigation instructions.
Waze has also been forced to overhaul its entire algorithm in response to the growing number of cars on the road as life returns to normalcy.
