In our series on open, surveillance-free apps, we take a closer look at Organic Maps – a map app that stands out as a privacy-friendly alternative to Google Maps. For many smartphone users, Google Maps has become the standard for navigation, but that convenience comes at a price: extensive collection of location data and dependence on a constant internet connection. Organic Maps is a free, open-source app (FOSS) that takes a completely different approach. Here, you can navigate without being tracked and without being tied to an internet connection.

Unlike Google Maps, which is neither open source nor particularly privacy-friendly, Organic Maps is built on open source and created by a community. The source code is openly available, which means that independent developers can review and improve the app. Most importantly, Organic Maps does not contain any tracker features – it does not collect your personal information or location data at all.

The app also has no ads or hidden data collection services running in the background. You don’t need to log in or give away any information – privacy is a core principle. Thanks to the open code, users can trust that there are no ulterior motives; it’s all about providing maps and navigation, nothing else.

Works completely offline – everywhere

One of the biggest advantages of Organic Maps is that the app works completely offline. All map data is based on the community project OpenStreetMap, which covers the entire world. You choose which maps (countries or regions) you want to download to your phone, and then you can navigate freely without the internet. Unlike Google and Apple Maps – whose offline features are very limited and lack full search or navigation functionality outside of the network – Organic Maps offers 100% of its features without a connection.

Searching for addresses and places, viewing points of interest, and turn-by-turn voice guidance work just as well offline as online. This means you can use the app in airplane mode, abroad without roaming, or far out in the wilderness.

Since Organic Maps is based on OpenStreetMap, you also get very detailed maps. The community updates the maps continuously with everything from new bike paths to small forest trails. For example, a technology writer noted that he has yet to encounter a hiking trail that is missing from Organic Maps’ maps – often there is information that large map services miss. This makes the app particularly popular among outdoor enthusiasts, but everyone benefits: even regular roads, addresses, and points of interest are extensively covered thanks to OpenStreetMap. In short, the offline map gives you the peace of mind that the map is always available, no matter where you are.

Battery-efficient navigation

Offline navigation not only gives you freedom from the mobile network – it also saves battery power. Organic Maps is remarkably energy efficient and uses minimal power compared to many other navigation services. Without constant data traffic, background tracking, or heavy advertising, the app can focus on what it’s supposed to do and nothing more. One reviewer says he used the app during several days of hiking without having to charge his phone.

The developers themselves claim that you can go on a week-long trip on a single charge with Organic Maps as your guide. For those who travel frequently or are simply tired of GPS draining their battery, this is a game-changer. Its energy efficiency also makes Organic Maps well suited for older or simpler smartphones that may have weaker batteries – the app is lightweight and resource-efficient.

Available for Android and iPhone

Despite its different philosophy, Organic Maps is as easy to get and use as any popular app. The app is available to download for free for both Android and iOS – you can find it in the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store. For those who use completely Google-free phones (such as GrapheneOS on Matrix mobile), it is also available through alternative open app stores such as F-Droid.

The interface is intuitive and similar to other map apps, so the barrier to switching is low. You can search for addresses or businesses, bookmark your favorite places, and get turn-by-turn voice directions. All these features are available offline after you download the maps for the area you need. In short, you get a full-featured map service on your phone – but without the surveillance.

Pre-installed on the Matrix phone

Organic Maps has become a staple in privacy-focused circles. Teuton Systems pre-installs the app on its Matrix phone – a security-focused Android smartphone based on GrapheneOS – as part of a Google-free ecosystem. This gives users a map service that respects their privacy right from the start. But even if you don’t own a Matrix mobile phone, you can still easily enjoy the benefits. Replacing Google Maps with Organic Maps on your current phone is a step towards a more privacy-secure everyday life, without losing any functionality. The app is completely free and open for everyone to try.

Organic Maps exemplifies how free and open software can give us, the average user, more control. You don’t have to worry about being tracked when you look up an address or navigate to a destination, and you can trust that the app only does what it says it does. The combination of open source code, offline capability, and top-notch privacy has earned the app excellent recommendations in tech media.

For those who value their privacy – or just want a reliable map app that works everywhere – Organic Maps is an inspiring alternative that shows it’s possible to navigate freely without giving up your privacy!