google maps not working in china

[willi_in_china]

Dear all,

i bought a Galaxy S2 (i9108) from China Mobile. I already flashed the system, and installed twitter, google mail and so on. however, it does not allow me to install google maps.

I would like to know a) what is the right google maps version for i9018 b) is there another work around than downloading a .apk file from somewhere? c) any good alternatives to google map?

Thank you

 

[Blorg]

I had the same problem in Vietnam, couldn't update Google Maps. If you have a SIM card from another country, put that in and then access the Market over Wifi. Make sure data roaming is off to avoid hefty charges. I used my home (Irish) SIM card to update Google Maps here in Vietnam no problem.

Alternatively if you are rooted already Market Enabler should allow you to do the same trick without physically changing the SIM card.

I also have a Galaxy S2 but I don't think the brand of phone makes any difference. I am now on version: 5.11.0 (#5110018) gmm-android-samsung

Once you have it on the phone it works in China very well, with no GPS offset like you get with most non-Chinese GPS units (I spent three months mostly in Sichuan and Yunnan.)

If the above doesn't work, a quick Google search should get you the APK file.

 

[willi_in_china]

Thank you Blorg,

I removed the SIM (and did not insert any other but just used wifi) and downloaded google maps and Skype (not TOM Skype). Both installed and run fine using wifi. Google maps also works with GPRS but Skype would not start using China Mobile network.

As for the Galaxy s2, mine is i9108 a TDCDMA handset designed for China Mobile. I think in this case the "brand" makes a difference. Had to flash it to use most google products.