Google Maps v3 - Map tile caching on client?

Question

I\'m using Google Maps JS API v3 for a project. Is there a way to ask the map to cache tiles on the client\'s machine so that when they refresh the browser, the tiles don\'t hav

Answer 1

This is actually possible with HTML5 and its cache-manifest feature. I'd suggest this question (and answer) be updated.

Google coders themselves have tackled this problem and unfortunately the information isn't well disseminated.

Required Readings

1. First take a look at the Google Code blogpost here: http://googlecode.blogspot.com/2010/04/google-apis-html5-new-era-of-mobile.html
2. Then have a read at Missouri State's own post: http://blogs.missouristate.edu/web/2010/05/12/google-maps-api-v3-developing-for-mobile-devices/

The Technique

• You must cache every URL used by Google Maps
• Employ methods to battle Chrome's and Firefox's stubborn caching methods by removing it from "offline websites"
• All customizations must be client-side in javascript

Your cache file will look like (as per Missouri State):

CACHE MANIFEST
/map/mobile/examples/template.aspx
/map/mobile/examples/template.css
/map/mobile/examples/template.js
NETWORK:
http://maps.gstatic.com/
http://maps.google.com/
http://maps.googleapis.com/
http://mt0.googleapis.com/
http://mt1.googleapis.com/
http://mt2.googleapis.com/
http://mt3.googleapis.com/
http://khm0.googleapis.com/
http://khm1.googleapis.com/
http://cbk0.googleapis.com/
http://cbk1.googleapis.com/
http://www.google-analytics.com/
http://gg.google.com/

Caveats

You will need to be entirely HTML5-based and recognize the impacts this will have on your users. This situation is handy where either your users are up-to-date on browser standards/devices or you have control over user choices.

Hope this helps.