CoMaps is a community-driven,

free and open-source Free and open-source software (FOSS) is software available under a Software license, license that grants users the right to use, modify, and distribute the software modified or not to everyone free of charge. FOSS is an inclusive umbrella term ...

offline In computer technology and telecommunications, online indicates a state of connectivity, and offline indicates a disconnected state. In modern terminology, this usually refers to an Internet connection, but (especially when expressed as "on li ...

navigation app that uses map data from

OpenStreetMap OpenStreetMap (abbreviated OSM) is a free, Open Database License, open geographic database, map database updated and maintained by a community of volunteers via open collaboration. Contributors collect data from surveying, surveys, trace from Ae ...

(OSM). The app is designed to function without internet connectivity by downloading maps for offline use. CoMaps emphasizes privacy, transparency, and community collaboration, aiming to provide a navigation solution that is not only easy to use, but also respects user data and fosters open participation.

Features

Privacy

CoMaps prioritizes user privacy by not collecting personal data or tracking user locations.

Offline maps

CoMaps functions entirely offline by allowing users to download maps in advance. Once maps are downloaded, navigation, search, and route planning do not require an internet connection. The app offers offline maps of the world, including cycling routes, hiking trails, walking paths, contour lines, elevation profiles, peaks, and slopes.

Low battery consumption

The app is designed to optimize battery usage during navigation.

Navigation

CoMaps provides navigation for various activities, including hiking, biking, driving, and public transport. It supports turn-by-turn navigation with voice guidance and allows users to search for information on the map and add bookmarks.

OpenStreetMap data

CoMaps integrates with the

project, utilizing its crowdsourced map data. The app includes an in-app editor where people can contribute updates to the map, such as businesses and landmarks.

Core Principles

The CoMaps team created a set of principles as the foundation of the project: # Transparency # Community Decision-making # Not-for-profit # Open source # Privacy-focused # Collective funding # Assets for Public Interest

History

The CoMaps project was initiated in response to growing concerns and dissatisfaction within the Organic Maps community. The original Organic Maps project, while initially promoted as an open community effort, faced significant issues related to governance, transparency, and the potential for shareholder profit at the expense of the community. These concerns were detailed in an open letter to Organic Maps shareholders. Despite some positive steps, the lack of a substantive resolution led to the decision by the community contributors to start a new independent project. The first public release of CoMaps was made available on the . As of May 2025, a fiscal host has been set up on

Open Collective Open Collective is a crowdfunding platform focused on grassroots groups. It enables organizations, communities, and projects to get a legal status and raise funding through subscription or one time payment. It's particularly favoured by open sourc ...

. Process is ongoing to form a non-profit or cooperative legal structure for the project.

References

External links

* {{OpenStreetMap Free and open-source Android software OpenStreetMap Mobile route-planning software Satellite navigation software IOS software Software using the Apache license