I replaced Google Maps with this open-source alternative and I barely miss it
Google Maps, we need to see other people
Many people claim that despite ditching most Google apps, one they can't part with is Google Maps. However, for me, the app was seldom used. I neither drive nor reside in a walkable city, and I rarely venture out without knowing directions. Nevertheless, recent travel has transformed Google Maps into one of my most frequently used apps.
While appreciating its usefulness, I questioned if I need to depend on Google for navigation. To find out, I replaced it with CoMaps, an open-source alternative. CoMaps, a fork of Organic Maps, emerged in May 2025 due to disagreements over governance and financial transparency. Both apps share privacy-focused features, community-driven development, and a lack of ads and AI features.
CoMaps stands out by integrating Mangrove Reviews, allowing access to community-powered ratings and reviews offline. Unlike Google Maps, CoMaps enables offline walking, cycling, and public transit directions with voice guidance. While Mangrove's review database is smaller than Google's, CoMaps still offers a significant advantage in offline navigation, particularly for those who don't drive and rely on walking.
Written by urgent.news from XDA Developers's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
