There is good news for Android users this week: the latest updates from Google and Apple provide Internet-less navigation and free music streaming (for three months).
Google now allows Android users to make use of offline Google Maps, including turn-by-turn voice directions and search functionalities. However, the map has to have been saved online previously.
While offline, users will be able to search for restaurants, museums and other services within their vicinity, and will be able to see reviews and opening hours.
"Google Maps is taking steps to help people across the globe find directions and get where they're going, even when they don't have an Internet connection," said Amanda Bishop, Google product manager, in a blog post.
"Once downloaded, Google Maps will move into offline mode automatically when it recognises you're in a location with spotty service or no connectivity at all. When a connection is found, it will switch back online."
The offline maps will only download, by default, when the device is connected to WiFi, to prevent large data fees.
Offline Maps will roll out this week to all Android users, with an iOS update coming soon.
Tunes for Android
Apple's music streaming service is now available, in beta, for Android users.
"From the beginning with Apple Music, our goal was for everyone to use it," said Eddy Cue, Apple senior VP of Internet software and services, in an interview with Mashable.
The Android version does not have all the same features as iOS yet. There are no music videos and it does not let users sign up for a family plan in the app.
Android users are given a three-month free trial. Thereafter, the same iOS subscription fees will apply. American users will be charged $9.99 a month and South African users will pay R59.99 per month.
Last month, Apple CEO Tim Cook said the streaming service had netted more than 6.5 million paid users, with an additional 8.5 million people participating in the free trial.
Music on the streaming service has a host of South African genres, including Kwaito, Afrikaans and Gospel, with a collection of South African songs and artists.
Apple Music is available now for download in the Google Play Store.
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