Yandex has updated its Maps application to support offline navigation for public transport. Users can now plan routes involving buses, trams, and other city transit services without an active internet connection, provided they have downloaded the relevant regional map in advance.
The offline mode includes travel time estimates and transfer details. When a user downloads a map, the application automatically saves the current public transport schedule. The app updates these schedules weekly whenever the device connects to the internet, ensuring navigation remains functional in areas with poor coverage.
The company notes that offline navigation has inherent limitations, as the app relies on pre-downloaded data and cannot reflect real-time traffic changes or service disruptions that require live updates. Users must rely on the static schedule stored on their devices.
Public transport navigation is the second most popular feature in Yandex Maps, with over 26 million monthly active users. Demand for offline capabilities is also rising, as the number of map downloads for offline use increased by 24% in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025.
