I'd like to be able to implement this in an Android app, and I thought it was possible with the newest Google Maps API release, but I haven't seen much discussion on the topic. Ideally, you'd be able to download/cache maps for a certain region for later offline use. Is it only possible to do this via the Google Maps 5 application and not the API without violating the ToS? I know OpenStreetMap and others allow this, but I believe Google Maps still offers superior mapping and the most widespread usage.
Thanks in advance.
You can save an area from Google Maps to your phone or tablet and use it when you're offline. Tip: You're unable to download offline maps in some countries or regions because of contractual limitations, language support, address formats, or other reasons.
Once you have the area you'd like to cache in view, type “okay maps” into the search box. Google will take a moment to “pre-load” the area and then save the copy to your device's offline cache. Once it's cached you can use the map at any time, even in Airplane mode.
Downloading and caching the Google Maps assets is against the Google Maps API TOS.
Check the TOS section 8:
License Restrictions. Except as expressly permitted under the Terms, or unless you have received prior written authorization from Google (or, as applicable, from the provider of particular Content), the license granted to you in Section 7 is conditioned on your adherence to all of the restrictions in this Section 8. Under this Section 8, you must not (nor may you permit anyone else to):
8.2. copy, translate, modify, create a derivative work of, pre-fetch, cache, or publicly display any Content or any part thereof.
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