ODK Web Forms v2026.1: Have respondents draw routes and outline areas in their browser

Web Forms can now handle much richer mapping workflows! These updates make it easier to draw routes and outline areas directly in the browser, whether your respondents have a phone, tablet, or computer.

:heart_eyes: What's new

:triangular_ruler: Map routes & areas: Tap to place points and quickly trace routes or outline areas on the map. The last placed point is now highlighted with a darker color so users don’t lose track of their place.

:right_arrow_curving_left: Unlimited undo: Step backward as many times as needed while mapping to fix mistakes.

:bullseye: Increased precision: Switch to advanced mode to fine-tune your shape with manual editing.

:light_bulb: Helpful tooltips: Desktop users can see tooltips on hover. Mobile-friendly tips are coming soon.

:round_pushpin: Modern location indicator: See your location with a familiar blue dot and accuracy circle. This update is also coming to Collect to ensure a consistent experience across platforms.

:sparkles: Other noteworthy fixes

  • Masked appearance: Securely hide sensitive text inputs like personal identifiers.

  • Smarter logic: Hide groups and repeats that don’t contain relevant questions.

  • Improved markdown parsing: Prevent accidental code blocks and unintended lists.

:tada: Try it out!

You can use these features directly in Central. Alternatively, you can use our Web Forms preview page to quickly upload a sample form or use this example to see how it works with your forms.

Thank you to everyone who helped shape these features! We know there is a lot more we could do to improve the experience and we plan to keep improving mapping alongside our other exciting features we have coming. Check out our roadmap.

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