In a move that marks a significant shift in strategy, Apple has officially launched the web version of Apple Maps, now accessible on Android devices. This expansion breaks down the walls of Apple's ecosystem, offering Android users a taste of Apple's mapping service for the first time. After a period of beta testing that began last summer and was initially limited to desktop browsers, Apple Maps on the web is now readily available for mobile browsers, signaling a potential challenge to Google Maps' dominance.
The launch of Apple Maps on the web means that Android users can now access the service by simply navigating to maps.apple.com on their mobile browser. This eliminates the need for a dedicated app, streamlining the user experience and making it easier for Android users to explore Apple's mapping capabilities. Users can even add the Apple Maps website to their home screen as a progressive web app (PWA).
While the web version offers a range of features, it's important to note that some advanced functionalities are still missing. Users can search for businesses, points of interest, and get directions, but features like transit maps, 3D buildings, and the ability to sign in with an Apple ID are not yet available. The absence of Apple ID sign-in means that saved places and custom guides from Apple devices won't be accessible on the web version. Moreover, turn-by-turn navigation is a notable omission.
Despite these limitations, the move is seen as a step towards greater interoperability between Apple and Google's ecosystems. By offering Apple Maps on the web, Apple is giving Android users a chance to experience its mapping service and potentially switch from Google Maps.
This launch comes after years of Apple working to improve and expand its Maps service. Initially met with criticism for inaccuracies when it launched in 2012, Apple Maps has gradually evolved into a respectable alternative to Google Maps. The release of the MapKit API in 2018 allowed developers to embed Apple Maps into websites, paving the way for wider accessibility.
The availability of Apple Maps on Android devices also provides a new avenue for users who may be privacy-conscious and prefer to avoid Google's services. While the web version may not be a perfect replacement for the native Google Maps app, it offers a viable alternative for basic mapping and navigation needs. It remains to be seen how quickly Apple will add more features to the web version to bring it on par with its iOS counterpart.
