Question about android apps

[Sfumatura]

I hope this is the right subforum, I couldn't decide between this and technology but I figured it was probably a beginner's question. I have an LG android phone. Which app should I use? Should I use the official one? I've seen a lot of other apps mentioned, and this is why I'm asking. I'd prefer something that is reasonably light but which lets me download content for offline use, as I don't have a data plan at the moment. I've been through some of the older threads with similar questions, but most of them just confused me a little. I already have two map apps installed (NavDroyd and another one) so could I just use those? I guess not but I'm not sure.

 

Thanks!

[+kunarion]

Several of the Apps, including the Official App, assume you're online, so they try to get data that isn't there. Are your maps loaded onto the phone? That's usually the problem I have with Apps, blank screens where a map should be. You can get distance and direction just fine in most Apps. And plan ahead, and you can load some cache GPXs for offline use, if you can receive files somehow. Do you have wifi?

 

The Official App and others will let you select from various compasses or map services that you have installed.

 

Here's a list of Apps, and some have free versions. Try the free ones, and see if they work for you:

http://www.geocaching.com/live/partners/

Edited April 19, 2013 by kunarion

[+wtxdxer]

I highly recommend Cachesense. There is a 30 day full featured demo you can try. I just noticed the pay version price is going to increase from $5 to $8 on April 30.

 

You do need a Geocaching Premium Membership to take full advantage of all the features.

 

Regards,

 

Alan

[+eccentric_]

As mentioned the Official Groundspeak app assumes you have data.

 

It doesn't look like NavDroyd supports importing gpx which would make life easier. I also noticed that it uses .EBMD and .SMD both proprietary map formats which is too bad because it means you'll be downloading areas twice on your phone taking time/memory.

 

It's not lite but my current favorite app has been LocusPro (has a free version). You can download online maps into offline ones easily using the app. I would install the geocaching4locus and maptweaks add-ons too.

[+PapaMinion]

I hope this is the right subforum, I couldn't decide between this and technology but I figured it was probably a beginner's question. I have an LG android phone. Which app should I use? Should I use the official one? I've seen a lot of other apps mentioned, and this is why I'm asking. I'd prefer something that is reasonably light but which lets me download content for offline use, as I don't have a data plan at the moment. I've been through some of the older threads with similar questions, but most of them just confused me a little. I already have two map apps installed (NavDroyd and another one) so could I just use those? I guess not but I'm not sure.

 

Thanks!

 

I've used a slew of apps on Android and have settled on CacheSense, if for nothing else than the ability to offline cache using Mapsforge maps. It has made treks in data-lacking areas possible on my Nexus7, and it's not a bad paperless-caching app for my HTC One X either. Definitely get the trial and see if you like it first. But jump on the price before it rises if you can.

Edited April 24, 2013 by Geo Minions

[+Golden Ace]

I've used CacheSense for years on the BlackBerry platform and really like it. The few times I've needed help, the customer service support has been awesome! I'll be switching to a new Android phone soon and CacheSense will be the first app I purchase. The thing I really like about it is the logical work flow and continual improvements based on customer suggestions. Check out the CacheSense forums and release notes for examples: http://www.cachesense.com/

[+smiles1_85]

Just joined today and the replies were very helpful, thanks!

[+JohnCNA]

Have to add my vote here, too. CacheSense is awesome and it has the most responsive and engaged developer that I have seen in a long time.