When we say navigation applications, Google Maps automatically comes to mind. It makes sense because it’s reliable, works well, has some of the most interesting functions for planning trips (even on stops and radars), and comes pre-installed on all Android phones.

However, there are other navigation applications with better or worse design, more or less functionality and different ways of processing our data, but if we are talking about an alternative to Google Maps, the other best known is Waze. Of course, there is one that might be better in some respects than its predecessors. called Compatible with Magic Earth and Android Auto.

Magic Earth has a version for Android Auto and cares about privacy

The first is the first: Magic Earth is free, no subscriptions or micropayments. the explanation is that Uses OpenStreetMap dataIt’s a collaborative project that leverages other free resources and where any user can contribute, for example, with GPS routes to fix something that isn’t entirely correct.

And heat, being a free project means there’s no big company behind it waiting to deliver benefits, so it doesn’t “play” with our data either. If you’re (and should be) serious about privacy, this is a strong argument to try the app.

The navigation works well, you have the option to choose routes according to whether you want the fastest or the shortest, and you can even record what’s on the way to your mobile, thanks to a DashCam function. This is coming to Android, but in the meantime, in this app.

to go from one place to another, Magic Earth is pretty complete and it has markers, points of interest, some three-dimensional buildings, gas stations and restaurants, but there is a downside to it that there is absolutely no Google or Apple structure behind it.

And there is unseen data (like “real-time” petrol price) and some closed places are still open on the map. We also have no recommendations, thanks to the massive Google community. This is a loss for me.

If that’s not a big deal for you, it’s a great alternative to both Waze and Google Maps, especially as an app to get from place to place on the road, and as we said. One of the best points is that it is compatible with Android Auto..

it works well, you have split screen mode but also full screen modeand thanks to being connected to the internet and being able to access Wikipedia, it has a very interesting function that can recommend places of interest near us.

On the other hand, it detects fixed speed cameras in general, if not all fixed speed cameras at traffic lights, interface is very well adapted to Android Auto and we even have a real time speedometer. And it’s as if you were using Google Maps to navigate from a cell phone while walking or in the car with the right support.

Magic Earth Navigation and Maps

Find the best route to your destination even without internet connection. Magic Earth uses OpenStreetMap data and a powerful search engine to provide you with optimal driving routes.

Free Download Free Download

Definitely, It is a very good option compared to Google Maps and Waze.And because it’s free and ad-free, it’s worth a try on your next trip if you want to change and get a little bit out of the Google “ecosystem.”

Xataka on Android | This launcher replaces Android Auto and includes more benefits like opening any app.

Xataka on Android | My stupid car now has Android Auto: I converted it for less than 60 euros