Videos: Offline Google Maps a glorified screenshot. 3D Printed ‘Ultrascope’ powered by Lumia 1020

I had reached to nearly same conclusion as the HERE team. as far as Google Map’s offline functionality is concerned. The stuck screen syndrome, as shown in the above screenshot explains, how Google Maps behaves, when you are stuck in a no-network zone or you switch on the airplane mode. Watch the official video below which compares offline Google and HERE Maps on Android. You can read our in-depth shootout between Google and HERE Maps.

Another official video features Lumia 1020 as the core of 3D printing apparatus used to create the first ever 3D printed automated robotic observatory, called an ‘Ultrascope’.

Microsoft has teamed up with The Open Space Agency (OSA) to create the first ever 3D printed automated robotic observatory, called an ‘Ultrascope’ – with a Lumia 1020 smartphone powering the apparatus at its core. The OSA is a collection of passionate and amateur designers, engineers and scientists from around the world who dedicate their free time to the exploration of space. With the help of Lumia technology, James Parr, founder of the Open Space Agency, was able to make his dream happen and designed this clever piece of easily assembled, affordable, 3D printed equipment. The amazing observatory telescope, with Lumia Camera technology at its heart, allows those who are fascinated by outer-space to take professional celestial photography – empowering them to study the nature of space. Follow the journey and see how Microsoft #MakeItHappen