You are hereForums / Android Software / Android Development / Background Downloads
Background Downloads
Here is a preview of how map downloads are started and monitored on Android.
When you first start BackCountry Navigator, you will probably start by previewing a Topo map.
In order to predownload a particular area for offline use, you will want to use some of the new buttons. The first one will toggle a selection mode for marking rectangles on the screen.
The third button, which looks like a pencil drawing on a CD, starts a download for offline use. You are then able to select a map layer, and a maximum level of detail.
After the download begins, it will continue in the background even if BackCountry Navigator is closed.You will be advised of its progress via notifications.
Downloading is best done when you have a stable internet connection like the wifi at your home. If it is a long download it can be done overnight with the phone attached to power.
Share This Page
My typical use for map download selection has been to select a point (using lat/long or place lookup) and radius. The perceived advantage of that approach is that it allows you to zoom in and see the necessary detail without having to take the seemingly cumbersome zoom out, select rectangle approach.
There are less steps than there have been in the past to define areas for download. Nonetheless, I can check to make sure what you've done in the past is also quick to accomplish.
The background download feature is nice, but what if I want to cancel? Will there be a way (short of power cycling the phone) to stop an in-process download?
You'll most definitely need something like this to popup when you click the notification:
I'll be making sure it works before this gets out.