I ditched Google Maps for a community-built Android Auto navigation app, and it's surprisingly good

Many people find Google Maps overwhelming due to its numerous features, including reviews, sponsored listings, and ads. The interface has become cluttered, leaving some users craving a navigation app that focuses on the basics of getting them from point A to point B. After trying several alternatives, including Organic Maps, the reporter discovered Horizon Nav, an open-source app with a unique offering for Android users and Android Auto.

Horizon Nav is free, ad-free, and doesn't require a user account. It focuses on delivering a clean interface with essential features, such as 2D and 3D map modes, traffic, streetlights, and camera options, as well as day and night modes. While some of these features may seem superficial, they add personalization options for users who value customization.

One of the standout features of Horizon Nav is its ability to close in on junctions, ensuring drivers take the correct turn. The app also provides standard features like voice search, although it lacks the extensive community and network that Waze and Google Maps offer. However, Horizon Nav relies on OpenStreetMap and Mapbox for data and rendering, meaning users must supply a Mapbox API key, which is free. If preferred, the app can also work with TomTom routing services, both offering generous free usage allowances.

To use Horizon Nav in Android Auto, users must enable the "unknown sources" option in their developer settings, which typically resolves the issue. For the most part, Horizon Nav covers the basics and more, providing a quality navigation experience without the unnecessary clutter of Google Maps.