Mapscape for iPad.

[OffTrack]

Just dropped by the spatial vision website to see if they had released their VicMap imagery for iPad yet and discovered this product.

Mapscape :: Authoritative High Performance Mapping (http://www.mapscape.com.au)

https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/mapscape-2012/id531033168'mt=8

The iPad app as purchased only has touring level mapping with isn't much use if you venture off road.

What is interesting/exciting is the new add-on consumer mapping pack that covers Victoria with clear detailed topo mapping. Not cheap at $185 but is far, far, better than the 1:25K Vicmap mapping available via MemoryMap!

https://svmaps.com.au/index.php?page=shop.product_details&category_id=9&flypage=flypage_lite_pdf.tpl&product_id=70&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=145

Have a look at the on-line demo of the hi-res mapping here:

http://map1.spatialvision.com.au/castlemaine/

[OffTrack]

I decided to have a look at the App before committing to the $185 ipad data pack.

For $29.99 you really don't get much to write home about. The touring level maps have a scale of 1:397,488 so are less detailed than the GA Austopo 1:250,000 sheets and might be useful if you needed a basic map for touring. I doubt it however.

There are overlays available. The default provides CFA incident information, which is undoubtably useful. There is also the option to add twitter feeds as a layer, which I'm assuming is how emergency services are communicating incident updates to mobile users.

I've been using an external gps receiver on a gen 1 iPad which has worked fine with other apps. Mindscape however doesn't seem to understand this, and has a "compass interference" error permanently displayed. Not so cool.

You can save favourites and search for current incidents.

Unfortunately there is no ability to load or log tracks or way points in this version, and judging by the target audience perhaps this isn't a priority.

My feeling is that the app will only be worthwhile with the additional iPad Data Pack. Spatial Vision are promising 2 map updates a year so it will remain the most up-to-date topo mapping available for Victoria. I'm in two minds whether that alone is sufficient justification for the purchase.

cheers
Paul