Sharing Custom Maps via Quick Share/AirDrop
Custom maps can be shared on both Android and iOS devices using their respective file-sharing platforms (Quick Share for Android devices, and AirDrop for iOS devices). Because this functionality is using the device's native sharing software, there are limitations and restrictions that may be outside of Avenza's control.
Listed below are a few factors to keep in mind when sharing maps with another device when using Quick Share/AirDrop:
- Sharing can only be done with custom maps and data
- Please note: in most cases, custom maps and data can both be shared at the same time. However, there may be cases where the device limits this ability. Workarounds for this are detailed below
- The share methods are unique to the platform, specific device, and operating system being used. Not all devices support file-sharing via AirDrop or Quick Sharing
- There is no cross-platform sharing at this time. Therefore, iOS users can only share with iOS users, and Android users can only share with Android users
- iOS users must be using the same version of Avenza Maps, the same operating system, and the same device language settings in order for AirDrop to work
- For Android users, the device doing the sharing must be using at least Avenza Maps version 4.2, but the receiving device can be an older version of the app, or operating system provided the device supports Quick Share
- Quick Share is only on Android devices using Android 6.0 or higher
Android
- From the My Maps List tap to the right of a custom map
- Select 'Share'
- Select Quick Share and follow the remaining prompts to select the receiving device
- Receiving device receives the file and automatically imports it into Avenza Maps
iOS
- From the My Maps List tap to the right of a custom map
- Select 'Share'
- Select AirDrop and follow the remaining prompts to select the receiving device
- Receiving device receives the file and automatically imports it into Avenza Maps
Exporting Custom Maps as a PDF, TIFF, or GPKG File
Users may also share their If sharing a custom map, Free and Plus users can export custom maps as a georeferenced .pdf or .tiff file directly in Avenza Maps. Pro users have the added feature of exporting maps and layers together as a GeoPackage (GPKG) file. For specific instructions on how to export your data as a GPKG, please visit here. Similar to sharing a custom map via Quick Share or AirDrop, this is done through the "Share" option, on the My Maps page.
Please note, the exported PDF or TIFF file will only contain georeferencing if the initial file (imported into Avenza Maps) is properly georeferenced. If a custom map is not properly referenced, you will be notified with a "Map not referenced" message on the map's listing in the My Maps page.
Android
- From the My Maps List tap to the right of a custom map
- Select 'Share'
-
Follow the pop-up with the remaining prompts to select your preferred sharing format (such as SMS, email or messaging apps)
- Alternatively, the file can be saved to your preferred storage location (device storage, Google Drive, Dropbox)
- File is automatically saved/sent for use outside Avenza Maps.
iOS
- From the My Maps List tap to the right of a custom map
- Select 'Share'
-
Follow the pop-up with the remaining prompts to select your preferred sharing format (such as SMS, iMessage, email or messaging apps)
- Alternatively, the file can be saved to your preferred storage location (device storage, Google Drive, Dropbox)
- File is automatically saved/sent for use outside Avenza Maps.
Comments
3 comments
These instructions are no longer valid. The user interface has completely changed and for the life of me I cannot see how to Airdrop maps any more. Not a great start to fire season.
Hi Nick,
Thank you for your post, it is appreciated!
We are aware of an issue where maps cannot be AirDropped unless there is a layer present. We are working on getting this fixed as soon as possible.
In the interim, if you can add a layer to the map that you are trying to AirDrop, you should then see the AirDrop export option show up. You do not need to select the layer to export, it's just required to get the export button to become enabled.
In terms of steps To AirDrop from the Map View (on an opened map) you can by tapping the Layer icon (looks like 3 layers sandwiched together where the previous and pin and 3 line icon was), followed by tapping on the export icon in the pop-up of the Map Layers . You will then be able to select "AirDrop" and continue from there.
We are aiming to update the images and overall article today, or in the coming days. The process is still the the same, but with icon changes. Thank you.
Edgar
Avenza Support
when I try to share a map i get a message 'cannot share this map' what can i do?
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