The CoMaps project, known for developing a completely open community fork of the mobile mapping application Organic Maps, has recently released version 2026.05.06 along with a detailed report on the project’s development over the past year. The CoMaps code is distributed under the Apache 2.0 license and the application can be found in various catalogs such as F-Droid, Google Play, Apple App Store, Flathub, as well as directly on Codeberg.
A key feature of the new release is the ability to update maps independently of the application itself by using the new “Check for updates” button on the map loading screen. This is a significant improvement as previously, map versions were tied to app updates, leading to delays in accessing new maps and making them less relevant over time. The project plans to release new maps weekly, with the current version based on OpenStreetMap data from May 10.
Other improvements in the new release include displaying only traffic lights on the route during navigation with larger icons, search categories displayed in columns in the Android version, and an incognito mode option for the system keyboard. The iOS version now features a button to start recording a track in navigation mode.
On its first anniversary on May 12, the CoMaps project celebrated the contributions of about 100 individuals who made 2,500 commits to the main repository on Codeberg. Over 270 translators are working on translating the project into 80 languages, with 30 languages already complete. The project’s community boasts over 1,200 participants in the main English-language Matrix/Telegram chat, with additional chats in Spanish, French, German, Turkish, and Russian.
Current operational issues are discussed by developers on the Zulip platform in the CoMaps space, with approximately 50 active participants. The project has an estimated user base of around 250 thousand individuals across all platforms. Throughout the year, the project has seen significant growth and positive changes, making it a valuable and popular platform for mobile mapping.