Since I have a Nokia phone, which permits me to download maps for specific countries and regions, I'm not dependent on Google - (or any other on-line) maps.

I'd wager that Nokia provides equal, if not - arguably - better quality than Google maps and I don't need to incur insane roaming charges when using a map abroad.

Granted, there are a few functions, that require a net connection, but basic map functionality and navigation works very well without being on-line.

Maps are only one example. I can't think of many applications, which I would prefer as a "cloud" based service as opposed to native.