Offline Route Guidance Arrives for Strava and Komoot on Apple Watch

Recent updates have introduced offline route guidance to the Strava and Komoot applications for Apple Watch users. This functionality allows for the navigation of pre-planned routes directly from the watch without requiring an internet connection.

Strava Introduces Offline Route Guidance

Users have observed the rollout of this feature within Strava. While initially described as a beta, it appears to be accessible to individuals not enrolled in beta programs.

Screenshots illustrate a route selection display and a navigation screen featuring a map view with the route overlaid, offering more comprehensive guidance than a basic breadcrumb trail.

Strava has not officially announced this upgrade, and it currently does not appear to necessitate a paid subscription. Users can access the option to utilize a pre-planned route when initiating a run, walk, or bike ride session. Advanced features, such as live re-routing, are not currently indicated.

This development aligns with Strava's broader strategy to expand the platform's utility, following previous additions like 'Instant Workouts' for personalized activity recommendations across more than 40 activity types.

Komoot Unveils Offline Navigation with Turn-by-Turn Guidance

Komoot, another fitness platform, has also implemented offline navigation. This enables guided route navigation directly from the Apple Watch, complete with turn-by-turn guidance. Similar to Strava's solution, this feature does not currently require a premium subscription.

Komoot plans to further expand these capabilities through 2026, with intentions to introduce features such as auto-re-routing and location sharing.

The downloaded map data for Komoot extends approximately 1.5km on either side of the planned route, providing a buffer for exploring the local environment.

An Alternative to Apple's Native Solution

These third-party app developments provide alternatives to Apple's native tracking application. Apple introduced its own offline map functionality with watchOS 10 in 2023, which received further development with watchOS 11.