App Showcase: MAPS.ME

What it does

MAPS.ME is a comprehensive mobile navigation application designed for offline use. It allows users to download detailed maps of countries and regions to their device, enabling route planning, turn-by-turn navigation, and location searching without an internet connection. The app also includes features for bookmarking favorite places, tracking activities like walking or cycling, and adding user-generated information to the map.

Where it shines

MAPS.ME excels in its execution of core mapping utilities. The offline map download feature is particularly well-implemented. For instance, when a user searches for a location in an undownloaded region, the app contextually prompts them to download the necessary map (02:18), making the process seamless and relevant. The app also features a clever, interactive rating prompt (02:21) with an animated mascot whose expression changes with the user's feedback, turning a typically mundane task into a delightful moment. Its route planning is robust, clearly showing different transport options and providing detailed elevation profiles for walking routes (06:24).

UX highlights

• The app offers deep customization in its settings, allowing users to toggle everything from toll roads in routing to the map's color theme and application icon (15:08-15:43).
• A dedicated distance measurement tool (08:38) lets users drop multiple pins to quickly calculate the total distance of a custom path, a handy utility for hikers or planners.
• The categories feed in the search function can be pinned and reordered (04:47), giving users quick access to their most frequently searched-for places like hotels or restaurants.
• Adding a place to the map is straightforward, with a clean form that allows for detailed information entry, including names in multiple languages, addresses, and opening hours (14:35).
• The search history is well-organized, and the option to clear it is easily accessible (03:49), respecting user privacy.
• For different modes of transport, the app provides distinct route visualizations and estimated times, including walking, cycling, and public transit (06:22).

Monetization & growth

The app's monetization strategy is introduced immediately upon first open. The onboarding is a feature carousel that doubles as a soft paywall (00:05). It showcases premium features like custom map styles and Apple CarPlay integration, with yearly and monthly subscription options always visible at the bottom. The annual plan is highlighted with a "Save 23%" tag, and the primary call to action is a "Start for free" button, which initiates a 3-day free trial before converting to a paid yearly plan. This approach focuses on converting high-intent users from the very beginning.

Who it’s for

MAPS.ME is built for travelers, hikers, and anyone who needs reliable navigation in areas with poor or non-existent internet connectivity. Its core audience includes international tourists who want to avoid roaming charges, outdoor enthusiasts who venture off-the-grid, and drivers who need a dependable GPS that isn't reliant on a mobile signal. The detailed feature set also caters to power users who enjoy planning multi-stop trips and customizing their mapping experience.

Notes & opportunities

The app's immediate paywall might deter users who are still exploring options and are not yet ready to commit, even to a free trial. Introducing a brief, skippable value proposition before the paywall could help set expectations. Additionally, while the app is feature-rich, some functions are buried in settings menus. Surfacing key customization options, like night mode settings (04:36), more directly in the main map interface could improve discoverability and usability.