Meta’s Llama versus ChatGPT, Apple versus Microsoft…
Don’t you feel the heat? This is the time for a head-to-head battle in the tech sphere. One more to the roll with Apple’s launch of Apple Maps hitting the browsers and with no room for guess, the competitor is none other than Google Maps!
Apple Maps was actually launched in 2012 with its access limited to iPhones. Since then, the Maps has been building on new features. Learning and examining its rivals. Apple Maps added attributes like offline navigation, multi-stop routing, detailed city maps, EV routing and cycling directions.
The Apple Maps is now live on web through its public beta version of Maps service. It is available through the ‘beta.maps.apple.com’ site. You can access Apple Maps on the web using Safari and Chrome on Mac and iPad and Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs. The developers using its MapKit JS tool can link out to Maps on the web. Precisely, from the restrained and exclusive availability in iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watches to its entry in the vast web, Apple Maps has signaled a checkmate to the behemoth Google.
With the new version, you can walk, drive, explore new routes via curated guides, get information including photos, hours, ratings and reviews, or even order your Netflix-and-chill-time-food directly from the Maps place card. Apple has also announced that it’s going to launch additional features, like Look Around, in the month ahead. Apple Maps is also trying to make a debut in other languages, browsers and platforms in the future.
To make it easier for you, the web interface has options like Directions, Businesses, Points of interest and Guides. Users cannot log in to their Apple ID on the web to access saved places and custom Guides.
Apple Maps on web; feature highlights
Apple Maps offers better navigation
The options for cycling, walking, real-time traffic and public transport are nothing new as they are all been provided by Google Maps. But what makes Apple Maps competent is the way it integrates with iOS devices. The clear and simple audio -visual directions are a plus.
Apple Maps on web browsers promise privacy
Unlike Google Maps, Apple Maps on web browsers do not collect excess user data. It works on an incognito mode to protect the privacy of users. It doesn’t ask for a sign-in. Data used in navigation has no association with your identity.
Apple Maps offer better coverage
Making its entry to more spaces, Apple Maps has come a long road.
Apple Maps Key Features
The key features include indoor mapping, airport and shopping mall guides. Not just that, it integrates with Apple Wallet for reservations and tickets which saves you time and helps you rethink! Curated Guides is a standout feature providing users with essential information on places to eat, shop, and explore.
Apple Maps Drawback
Apple Maps still has areas to be worked on. To point out, it cannot be accessed on Android devices or Safari on iPhone. And, we cannot say that this war is between Apple and Google alone. Several open-source alternatives like the Overture Maps Foundation backed by Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft, has made its first mapping dataset publicly available. Let’s wait and watch for more surprises the tech world has to offer.
