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Google has just given a good surprise to iOS users by releasing the offline navigation feature for its maps usable on iPod Touch, iPhones and iPad. Google confirmed the new addition for Apple's iOS even though it was not mentioned anywhere in the official literature that accompanied the new update, said VentureBeat.

iDownloadBlog also confirmed that the offline feature is not usable on all the regions and has been activated only for some areas because of the rollout being targeted for some markets only. In a recent statement to VentureBeat, Google spokesperson said, "You'll soon be able to download an area of the world to your phone and the next time there's no connectivity-whether it's a country road or an underground parking garage-Google Maps will continue to work seamlessly."

Google Map brough their updated version for Android last month that provided area downloads, local business info, turn-by-turn navigation, all available offline. Now these features have also been added to the iOS version for iPad and iPhones. The latest version now available on the App store for some devices, the users will also be able to see the latest gas prices for the fuel stations in the vicinity. There is also another interesting feature added to the app, "Popular Times" that can help you decide what is the best time of the day to go to a bar and restaurant, displaying the time when it is not too busy. Just like the Android version, offline maps and turn-by-turn navigation has also been included for iOS. Local business info is also available and will provide vital information such as hours of operation, phone numbers and user ratings, says Neowin.

The latest maps version is available at iTunes and needs iOS 7.0, or later. The maps are compatible with iPhone, iPod and iPad, reported NewsFactor.