Maemo Mapper currently has three methods of downloading map data; the immediate, "show map of current area and detail level", and the two ahead-of-time modes, "download multiple detail levels of this region" and "download multiple detail levels along a route". The routes themselves are also downloaded over the Internet, from a gateway server performing a format translation.

The drawback of these methods is that along practically any route, especially one that takes the user through municipal areas as well as countryside or highways, any one fixed selection of detail levels is either going to be a big download and memory requirement, or leave the user with lack of detail in critical intersections.

I think it should be possible to improve from this accuracy while reducing the number of decisions the user is required to make. The route information contains a rich level of data about the general shape of the route. In particular, there are the way-points and the distance between them, and the route data on a turn-by-turn basis for display purposes.

Just by using the way-points, downloading detail maps on the way-points themselves, and a level of detail relative to the distance when between way-points, is this selection already made not just automatic, but also richer for the end user. By also utilizing the route shape data, detail level could also be increased when the route takes sharp turns.

Finally, if any points of interest fall close to the route chosen, it would make sense to download a more detailed map around that point.

If Mapper is used in the same area for an extensive period, it might benefit of keeping records of the tracks taken (with significantly lowered resolution), and utilize a similar logic to the above for also keeping detailed maps of the frequently visited places and nearby locations. Of course the user is already likely to be able to navigate in such an area without the help of extensive maps; perhaps this information could be augmented with data about where has she tried to access the maps.