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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use the app offline?
Install the app. Free includes a ~100-article starter pack on-device. With Premium, download the full library (~28 MB) and any map regions while online. After that, reading, tools, Comms, Map, and Ask work without signal. You only need a connection again for library updates, new map packs, optional AI model download, route calculations, ads/purchases, or store restore.
How do I export a guide as a PDF?
Open any article in the Library. Use the share / export action and choose Export as PDF. The PDF is generated on your device. Free includes 2 lifetime distinct-article exports (re-exporting the same article is free). Premium unlocks unlimited exports.
How do I use “I NEED HELP NOW”?
From the Field Manual / Home screen, tap the large emergency button. Pick your crisis type to see immediate steps, then open the full scenario playbook for time-phased guidance. Designed for stress — large targets, no account required.
How do I use the Compass?
Go to Tools and tap Compass. It uses your device magnetometer — hold the phone flat and away from metal for best accuracy. Works without internet. You may be prompted to calibrate with a figure-8 motion.
How do I send an SOS signal with the flashlight?
Go to Tools → SOS Signal. Start the signal to flash the international Morse SOS pattern (... --- ...) on the rear torch until you stop it.
How do I practice knots?
Go to Tools → Knot Trainer. Pick a knot, start the walkthrough, and advance one step at a time while the screen stays awake. A timer tracks your practice session.
How do I create a custom checklist?
Open Checklists from the sidebar or Me & Settings. Built-ins include Bug-Out Bag, Home Preparation, Medical Kit, and Evacuation. Tap + to create a custom list, add items, and track progress — all stored on-device.
How do I download offline maps?
Map is a Premium feature. After upgrading, open the Map tab, choose My Area, My Region, or a country pack, and download while online. Free users can open Map to preview the UI but cannot unlock packs until Premium.
What is Ask the Manual?
Ask the Manual is on-device Q&A powered by Gemma. Free includes 5 messages, then locks until Premium. Premium is unlimited. It finds matching offline articles and writes a short grounded answer, then shows guides to open.
How does mesh chat work?
Open the Comms tab, set a callsign, and enable Bluetooth. Free includes 5 chat sends; Premium is unlimited. Nearby users can exchange messages, see proximity, or broadcast SOS without cell service. Messages are not end-to-end encrypted.
Will the app work if my phone has no battery?
No — the phone must be powered. Keep a power bank in your kit, and use PDF export to print critical field sheets as a no-power backup.
How do I delete my data or account?
There is no The Last Manual account. Local data lives on your device. Clear app storage in system settings or uninstall. See the Data Deletion page for details.
Does the app collect any data about me?
No The Last Manual account. Free may show Google ads; Premium purchases go through Google Play / RevenueCat; library and map downloads use content hosts. See the Privacy Policy for the full picture.
What's the difference between Free and Premium?
Free: ~100 starter articles, basic tools, 5 Ask + 5 Comms messages, Map preview locked, 2 PDF exports, ads. Premium lifetime: full 4,900+ library, Map, unlimited Ask & Comms, ad-free, unlimited PDFs. Launch price $19.99 (was $39.99, 50% early discount).
Emergency disclaimer
The Last Manual is an educational reference. In a life-threatening emergency, contact local emergency services when available. Do not rely solely on this app.