Software companies have been working around the clock to bring all their products to users, no matter where they are or how they want to use the apps.
Magic Earth, a Google Maps alternative whose main focus is user privacy, has decided to go a step further and bring its navigation app to the wrist. The latest version of the app received support for the Apple Watch, so users can now get turn-by-turn guidance without unlocking their mobile device.
If you’ve ever used a navigation app on an Apple Watch – because yes, this feature isn’t new in the navigation space – you probably know what to expect. You can select a travel mode, choose a destination from history or favorite locations, and get detailed instructions on how to head to the address.
Magic Earth on the Apple Watch supports multiple travel modes, including driving and walking, albeit running the app on the wrist makes more sense for people using the latter. I’ve already used Google Maps on the Apple Watch when exploring new cities on vacation, and leaving aside the battery impact, the experience was great. Not having to keep the phone in my hand and look at it once every few seconds is super convenient, so I could focus on exploring things rather than keeping my eyes on the phone.
The driving mode doesn’t make as much sense as walking in Magic Earth on the Apple Watch, as looking at the watch for every turn you’re supposed to make isn’t the best idea. In this case, you should better run the app on your smartphone and put the device in a holder on the dashboard. If you have CarPlay, Magic Earth supports it, so you’ll get route guidance and turn-by-turn instructions on the bigger screen in the cabin.
The addition of Apple Watch support makes Magic Earth an even more compelling Google Maps alternative. The application already packs the essential features, including offline maps, multiple stops, traffic information, and AI-powered capabilities such as an integration dashcam and trip recording. It also includes collision warnings and lane departure notifications powered by your mobile phone.
The main selling point—user privacy—means Magic Earth doesn’t track users and doesn’t profile them. The company promises not only that it doesn’t collect any data but also that it doesn’t have anything to sell to third parties.
If you want to try out Magic Earth on your Apple Watch, you must install version 8.0.8 on your iPhone. WatchOS 10 is required to run the app on an Apple Watch.