Written Android App Review
If you’re at all familiar with the concept of geocaching, you’re more than likely familiar with the excellent online service OpenCaching.com. The site offers a wealth of free information about where to find stashed caches, and is a valuable tool for anyone serious about the activity. And now, thanks to developer Garmin, Android apps users can even take the web-service with them via Garmin OpenCaching.
Functionality
Using Garmin OpenCaching, finding nearby geocaching spots is as easy as booting up the app with your Android phone’s GPS settings turned on. Once loaded, the app will automatically search its online database for matching points of interest, and display them on a map for easy perusal. By clicking on any point displayed, the app reveals even more detailed information about the caches difficultly, its description, its terrain type, its size, and even just how generally “awesome” it is. From there, would-be-cachers can store locations under their favorites for use later, or go straight back to the map for detailed directions. If interested, users can also sign up for an account with OpenCaching.com, and begin uploading their own caches straight from the app. Garmin OpenCaching even includes the option to keep a logbook of your geo-specific conquests, in case you’re more of a sentimental hiker.
Design
Garmin OpenCaching
Besides offering a wealth of useful features, Garmin OpenCaching also sports a very vibrant, woodsy design that compliments the app splendidly. Navigation to core features is done via the main menu’s app-stack, and I was very pleased with the layout’s simplicity. Everything I needed to quickly find nearby geocaches was either a click away, or a drop-down menu out of reach. Even with very little direction, one could easily navigate Garmin OpenCaching’s digital halls.
The developers have also added another nice design touch in the form of an illustrated introduction. This pop-up window greets you when OpenCaching is first booted, and will guide you through the mysteries of geocaching, explaining exactly what the activity entails as well as how you should go about it: A touch I found particularly useful, especially for green-horns.
Value
Best of all, Garmin OpenCaching is one-hundred percent free. Even creating an account with the app’s website will cost you a flat nothing. And with so many handy features that make it easier than every to pick up geocaching, Garmin OpenCaching is a true steal. No matter if you’re a seasoned veteran, or just someone looking to give the activity a go, the app has everything you need to get going and then some: Bug repellent and bear-resistant cans not included, though.
Android Apps Review Details: Garmin OpenCaching Android app is free. This app requires Android 2.1 and up. You may download Garmin OpenCaching from the Android Market.
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