[Geocaching app for Windows 8 - Opinions?]

I also have a Lumia 920, and run both the Geocaching Live and Geocaching Plus apps. Geocaching Plus tends to be about 5-10 metres off (sorry, no clue what that is in feet...15-30, I think). I have not tried the multi caches, but I run LTE network, and with a decent data plan can likely log into the website for anything as I find information. I plan on a multi this weekend, so I will update.

 

As for the original question, when I have a screen open and hit the "windows" button, I am taken to the home screen. When I re-enter the app, I am at the beginning again. To get past this, I use wifi to save a cache for offline use, and then access through my offline (backpack) bookmarks. This way, it is only one extra step, rather than doing it ALL over again. I also tend to take the GPS unit with me, as I am not sure yet on the accuracy of the app's readings. One thing I REALLY dislike about the Geocaching Live app is that you cannot leave the download page while downloading a search or PQ. If you do, it is lost and will need to be re-started.

 

In the Geocaching Live app, you have the options of searching; nearby, by cache ID, by address, postal code or landmark, trackable code, keyword or cache name, or on a map. Downside is that any search run through the app maxes out at 30 caches/search, and also maxes out at a 35 mile radius...not so good if you are looking at going further abroad without more detailed information about a search area. However, it does also have driving directions for any cache as a search option.

 

Bonuses on the geocaching Plus app are: able to see caches from other sites as well; search is done vi a map, so it is more user-friendly for the technologically inept (like me) and it does not restart you at the "start screen" when you close and reopen the app. You are also able to mark a waypoint as needed for the return hike out of the middle of nowhere. (Handy if you tend to carry a cache with you, just in case you find a "perfect!" spot, or want to revisit somewhere another time) With this app, you can see cache description, any pictures, the log book, as well as details of the cache.

 

I think both apps are decent, although I prefer the geocaching live just for the ability to do everything on the go, as I cache...hope this helps!

[Why is app for WP free?]

I'm not complaining about this, i'll be getting a WP soon, just wondered if anyone may know why it's free for WP and you have to pay on other platforms. It is the official app right?

 

http://www.windowsphone.com/en-gb/store/app/geocaching-live/33e84192-f9f3-425a-840d-dd2907808b33

 

Any ideas?

 

It is the official app, and it is free. If you are a premium member, you have unlimited downloads and saves, if you are not, you only get three. I am not sure why it is free, but I have been using it on my Windows 8, Nokia Lumia 920, and it is far better than the android apps I have used in the past, and head and shoulders above the blackberry apps I switched from!

 

My only complaint so far with the app is that I am not sure of the accuracy of the compass...seem to be getting more DNF with this...although, it is possible the caches had been muggled or I was simply off...

 

I have also tried the Geocaching Plus app for WP 8. I do not recommend it over the geocaching live app (just because the official app has more functionality, and I don't have to wait to get home to log my finds), but it is also free...and I think the location accuracy is slightly better than the geocaching live app. Hope this helps!

 

Overall, I would recommend the geocaching live app over all others I have used thus far!!