Apple reveals free upgrade to popular iPhone app – and it could save you from car journey nightmares

APPLE MAPS is finally catching up with rival Google Maps.

The app will work offline, meaning you can follow your route even when there's no connection.

Or if you run out of data.

It's long been a major missing gap in Apple Maps.

Google's version has had such a feature for years.

You'll have to tap a button to download the route before you lose connection.

But once it's done - and you're offline - you'll be able to access turn-by-turn navigation for driving, walking, transit, and cycling.

It'll also show the estimated time of arrival.

Places will be shown on the map as well.

Your iPhone will show you how much space downloading it will use up.

The option will arrive as part of iOS 17, Apple's next big iPhone update.

It's due to be released sometime in autumn, packing a load of new features.

Among them are glossy contact posters when someone calls you, an easier way to share contacts with others and useful voicemail transcriptions.

Some lucky users can get hold of the free update early - though it's not recommended for everyone.

But sadly three popular iPhone models won't be able to download the update at all because they're now too old.

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