Tech News
← Back to articles

I left Google Maps behind for a free alternative that doesn't track me (or drain my phone battery)

read original related products more articles

CoMaps / Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNET

Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.

ZDNET's key takeaways

Privacy-first: no tracking or data collection.

Offline maps and turn-by-turn directions save battery.

Free, open-source app for Android and iOS.

Every month, Google sends me a report on my online activity, and I must say that I'm not a fan. In fact, the idea that Google is tracking me via Maps disturbs me. That's not the only issue I have with the default Maps app. It seems that every time I have to rely on the app, my Pixel 9 Pro's battery drains faster than when using any other app.

Also: Waze vs. Google Maps: I tested two of the best navigation apps, and there's a clear winner

Those two issues alone are enough to make me question why I use such an app.

That's why, when I heard about CoMaps, I immediately wanted to learn more about it.

... continue reading