I made some reps’ about this to someone who was off to see and consult with the OS early last year and I suggested almost exactly this. I pointed out that there were very few of us who would pay out over a £100 notes a time for a full digital OS when it couldn’t be split up and used across different devices and what we needed is to be able to just down load what we need when we need it at a minimal cost and be able to keep it (the same way iTunes operate), and then most would start using the system. I feel all vindicated now…
… as long as the tiles you purchase don’t cost the earth and can be used on other devices and a PC. It would be nice to know you could buy a few tiles to cover a new route and then be able to upload them into your Garmin (Edge 800)… but if it’s going to cost £50 to get enough tiles just to get round Ladybower then I shall continue using my other source 😉
Very interested to see the results of your trials allthegear.