maps functionality with wifi off

Everything is on Google servers so Yes, you need Wifi connected to use it... but it works great in Montreal Canada!

 

Nope - only your last place of connection will be displayed (regular Map only, Not Satellite View) - you can't do a search of a new location offline.

 

Sorry to disappoint you, but the maps are downloaded from google, and are not stored on the touch. However, if you plan a route while connected to WiFi, and then disconnect, it will save all the maps required for the route.

(this is true for a jailbroken 1.1.1 with iPhone maps, i have upgraded to 1.1.3 and bought the new apps but have not tested it fully)

EDIT: Posted at the same time as the other 2, so they have answered the question.

 

Well
That is kinda tricky (had a jailbrocken one)

Well with the Jb one it was that way the the already seen map parts are saved but i really dont know for how long , maybe for 24 or 48h.
BUT you are only able to see (w/out wifi) exactly what you have "downloaded" with wifi only the same zoom (also a bit lesser zoom i believe)

That also with the list (for the rout planing)
the list is also for a specific time readable w/out Wifi...

hope that the info your seeking.

 

I don't think that you are "obviously" away from WiFi if you're lost. Lots of McDonald's have free WiFi, as do many truck stops, coffee shops, etc. If you're lost you can stop look yourself up, get a map and directions and continue on. I'll agree it's not AS useful as it is on the iPhone, but it's not pointless at all.

Map data, btw, is pretty big... maybe 2 or 3gb for all the main roads in the US. I do suspect, though, that once the SDK is out some GPS/mapping software company will sell an offline map application for the touch, if not a GPS add on as well.

I'd happily pay $100 or so for a GPS add on with some decent mapping software.

 

If you do something online, such as getting directions, the app will cache all of that offline for you to use.

For example -- Before leaving home, you use Google Maps to get directions to a destination in another city. Turn off wifi, then try to use the turn-by-turn from Google Maps. It should work from cache. It does for me, at least.

Beyond that, I'm not sure.