Nathan Drescher reassessed his reliance on major tech companies, particularly Google, due to concerns about ads and clutter in Google Maps. He discovered Here We Go, a European navigation app that offers a streamlined experience without requiring a Google account. After testing the app on his RedMagic 10 Pro during commutes and a camping trip, he found its user-friendly interface and clear turn-by-turn guidance effective, though it struggled with lane guidance in certain areas.
Drescher used Here We Go for walking, public transit, and traffic management. The app provided accurate walking routes and rerouted him effectively, while the transit feature was inconsistent due to Ottawa's unreliable public transport. Here We Go accurately reflected traffic congestion but did not offer alternative routes. It provided reliable information on businesses and landmarks, though it lacked some newer establishments.
The app had shortcomings, including robotic voice directions and occasional lag in loading directions. In rural areas, the map's detail was sparse compared to Google Maps. Ultimately, Here We Go met his needs for a privacy-conscious navigation solution in urban settings, but he preferred Google Maps for rural navigation due to its comprehensive coverage.