WIREDGOV

The new version of Ordnance Survey’s popular OS Locate app can now pinpoint a user’s exact location on the map, anywhere in the world. Available for the first time on Android, the app has also been updated in iOS with a new compass in partnership with world-renowned outdoor accessories brand Silva. 

OS Locate has seen over 10,000 downloads on iOS since its launch earlier this year and has proved itself to be ideal for pinpointing the location for anyone exploring the great outdoors. The free to download app is a fast and highly accurate means of pinpointing a user’s exact location.

Mike Phillips, OS Locate Product Manager, says: “We received fantastic feedback from rescue teams, scout leaders, coastguard teams and even amateur photographers who loved OS Locate on iOS. We quickly realised that the demand was there to create an Android version, but we wanted to incorporate some new features to maximise the number of people who could access and the updated app can now be used worldwide and displays latitude, longitude and altitude as well as a grid reference. Not only that, but we’ve partnered with leading compass manufacture Silva to feature their iconic Silva Expedition 4 as the compass display in the app, complete with a moving bezel to take bearings, which is fantastic news.”

The app converts GPS location readings from a mobile phone to either Ordnance Survey National Grid references, enabling users to determine precisely where they are on an Ordnance Survey map, or to latitude and longitude. OS Locate does not require a mobile signal to function, so the inbuilt GPS system can be relied upon, even in the most remote areas.

The app functionality makes it ideal for all users – from casual walkers to committed cyclists or keen canoeists. The highly accurate positioning, including the new altitude functionality, provided with national grid references and latitude and longitude options also makes the app an asset for outdoor rescue teams across the country, both on and off-shore.

Silva Marketing Coordinator, Lindsay Millar believes the release of the app will strengthen the use of traditional maps and compasses. “Our compasses are our best selling products and are known the world over. By releasing this app in partnership with Ordnance Survey, we are opening up basic navigation skills to a whole new generation of users who can download OS Locate quickly and for free, enabling them to learn how to use a functioning compass. Navigation technology is evolving and as the inventor of the liquid filled compass, Silva feel it is important to be ahead of the curve. However, as GPS has its limits – loss of signal or battery life – this app highlights the key importance of using this technology as a supplement to fundamental map and compass skills needed to stay safe in the outdoors. Silva are thrilled to be a part of this exciting development.”

Users can choose between displaying altitude data in feet or metres as well as whether to display grid references or latitude and longitude as their default display. The OS Locate app is packed with additional features. The ‘Share’ button allows users to connect with friends and family via messaging and social media (when there is a mobile or Wi-Fi signal) to let them know where they are. For those who are keen to learn more about maps and navigation, the ‘About’ button hosts a wealth of information including hints and tips and a guide to map reading. In addition, users will find simple yet comprehensive guides on how to use Eastings and Northings. The app also integrates with Ordnance Survey’s first official mobile app, OS MapFinder, which allows users to access their detailed mapping of Great Britain.

Find out more and download the app: http://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/shop/os-locate

Please note that OS Locate is a complementary tool for paper maps. Users should always have an Ordnance Survey paper map and baseplate compass when exploring the great outdoors. In the United States or Canada, users there will see an unbranded compass display.

For more information from Silva, please contact:
Lindsay Millar – Marketing Coordinator on 01506 406277 or lindsay.millar@silva.ltd.uk