Optimizing
for Offline

While connectivity and mobile coverage are improving rapidly every day, millions of people around the world still live outside the range of mobile internet networks.

Millions more bounce in and out of network connectivity when on the go. Wi-Fi access may also be scarce or the cost of mobile data prohibitive. In Uganda, for example, internet access can cost nearly 11% of monthly expenses. People living in areas with high-priced networks regularly turn off mobile data to control costs. From our research, we see that people around the world regularly go offline, whether in Lagos or Los Angeles, intentionally or unintentionally.

During our many immersion travels in NBU countries, we were able to experience firsthand the pain many NBUs face when contending with unreliable or unavailable internet while using devices and apps. (See Immersion). This led us to develop a set of material guidelines and strategies to help the ecosystem build apps that function seamlessly in intermittent and offline states so that the NBUs can continue to tap the benefits of the internet without needing near-constant connectivity.

Clearly indicate offline functionality.

Offline design is not standardized across mobile products, but there are ways that can help people understand a product’s offline capabilities. For example, designers should indicate when someone can use an app or website offline by displaying the offline pin icon paired with the word “offline.”

Allow downloading for future offline use.

Displaying the file size will also help users determine whether they want to spend that amount of data on a single download and if they have the available storage. Indicate content that can be downloaded for future offline use by displaying the download icon paired with the label “download” and the size of the file.

Offline states offer opportunities for delight.

This means to reimagine the offline state as an opportunity for innovation rather than an obstacle. Consider common use cases in which someone could lose internet connection and still make the most of the product. For example, an app could help a busy parent search for a recipe on their way to the market. Or help a new college student feel a little closer to home by allowing them to view photos of friends and family — even without a steady internet connection.

Based on our research and insights, we have developed offline capabilities for some of our most popular apps.

Google Maps, for example, now allows users to download an area of the world and access navigations and turn-by-turn voice directions from point to point within that area, all without the need for an active connection. Our Classroom app allows students to work on assignments offline, enabling them to continue their education even without internet connectivity in select areas, and the YouTube app enables users to download certain videos to play offline, ensuring users who lack a reliable internet can enjoy entertainment wherever they are.

In addition to offline modes, we’ve also developed “lite” versions of Search and Chrome to help the NBUs even better manage data consumption on their phones. Google Go, for instance, is a light and fast search app that enables users to get answers quickly and reliably, even on slow connections and smartphones with low memory.

Because the field of offline is still new, there is plenty of room for innovation and creativity. Offline states have become essential components of digital experiences, and if we look at them the right way, they don’t have to be limiting and can even become unique, delightful experiences.

Access

Internet access is a basic human right. But the goal of providing equitable and inclusive internet access to everyone remains unmet.

Building inclusive products

Conducting user research, whether it’s on-the-ground or virtual, helps designers better understand the people they aim to serve.

Content

Everyone should be able to find the info they need online, but not everyone can. Find out why.

Designing for confidence

Inclusive digital design can help novice internet users grow their digital confidence.

Ecosystems

Everybody who works in tech can help create a more inclusive, equitable internet for everyone, everywhere.

Financial inclusion

Financial inclusion goes beyond financial access. It’s about empowering, creating opportunities, and accelerating progress.

Growth in Africa

The growth of Africa’s internet economy will shape how everyone uses the internet in the future.

Hardware

The next billion internet users are mobile-first or mobile-only, which makes their smartphone a key part of their digital experience.

Immersion

Teams who immerse themselves in the communities they aim to reach are more likely to build successful products.

Jobs

Tech has the potential to fundamentally change the way employers and job-seekers interact in every kind of market.

Knowledge

It’s the tech community’s responsibility to support novice internet users as they learn how to be online.

Language

Most internet content is published in English. Learn how tech innovations are changing that.

Motorcycle Mode in Maps

Built for the next billion users, Motorcycle Mode in Google Maps shows how developers Google can improve existing services to meet evolving user needs.

Navigating a smartphone

From tapping, to pinching, to swiping, and more—developers can help unlock the value of a smartphone.

Optimizing for Offline

Novice internet users can better access the benefits of the internet with offline capabilities and “lite” versions of apps.

Privacy

We’re developing new ways to protect people’s privacy when they share devices with friends and family.

Questions

It’s our responsibility to help answer the questions of novice internet users—so they’re empowered when they go online.

Reality vs Perception

We’re helping educate novice internet users in order to prevent misconceptions and empower people when they spend time online.

Google Search is a key part of a novice internet user’s experience—providing access to everything from news, medical services, recipes, entertainment, and more.

Teaching

Novice internet users often learn how to use the internet and their smartphones through their friends and family. Learn more about their experiences.

Upboarding

Many novice internet users don’t know common digital symbols and functions. Upboarding helps grow digital literacy by meeting users where they are.

Voice

Developing enhancements for voice tools can help grow the internet and bring more people around the world online.

Women

The barriers women face are disproportionately higher compared to their male counterparts. We have the opportunity to empower women and help close the gap.