Google Maps for Android Labs Offers Offline Caching
Android: Enable the new Download Offline Maps lab to make sure you never get lost in an unfamiliar area without a data connection, but also check out two existing mobile Google Maps labs you may not have known about.
Access to Google Maps on smartphones has helped millions avoid getting lost when they visit a new place, but until now it only worked if you had a data signal or Wi-Fi. The Download Map Area feature lets you prepare for a trip by choosing a spot in Google Places and downloading the maps for a 10-mile radius of that spot. It's a great way to prepare for your family trip at Yellowstone or a honeymoon in Paris. Keep in mind that the download only stores base map tiles and landmarks, so you'll still need a data connection for directions, Satellite views, Places, and 3D Buildings.
Also consider two other existing labs for Google Maps for Android:
To access any of these labs on your Android phone, choose the menu within Google Maps and select More and then Labs. Android tablets already have the menu button in the upper-right corner. The Download Map Area lab requires Android 2.1+ and the latest version of Google Maps.
More @ Google blog:
