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Online vector maps and ocean depths

· 2 min read
Yulia Musaeva
Yulia Musaeva
Product Manager at Guru Maps

With Guru Maps 6.1, you no longer need to download an entire region just to explore it in detail. Vector map data and elevation are now streamed directly to your device as you browse — open the map and start exploring right away.

What changed​

Online raster maps have been part of Guru Maps for a while. In version 6.1, vector maps and elevation data work the same way — streamed over your internet connection and cached locally so repeated use stays fast.

In practice, this means crisp, detailed vector maps with no waiting for a region download to finish. Just open and go.

Discover the ocean floor​

Here's something new: depth contours are now visible across the world's oceans and seas. The elevation data was always there — but oceans don't belong to any downloadable region, so it was never accessible until now.

With online elevation streaming, bathymetric contour lines appear just like elevation lines on land, revealing underwater ridges, trenches, and continental shelves as you browse.

How to enable​

Online streaming is on by default, so most users won't need to change anything. To adjust the settings, go to Settings > Online Maps:

  • Use Online Data — the main toggle for streaming vector tiles and elevation
  • Download via Wi-Fi Only — useful if you're watching your mobile data
  • Map Refresh — controls how often cached tiles check for updates.

Cached tiles are stored locally on your device. You can see how much space Vector Tiles and Elevation Data take up, and swipe to delete individual caches at any time.

Free for everyone​

Online vector tiles and elevation data are available to all Guru Maps users at no extra cost. No subscription, nothing to unlock.

Questions or feedback? Drop us a line at [email protected].