Apple Maps Finally Launches Web Version to Compete with Google Maps

After many years of waiting, Apple Maps Finally Gets Its Own Web VersionThe mapping platform has begun the process of expanding to compete more openly with Google Maps, regardless of whether users have an iPhone, iPad or Mac.

The web version of Apple Maps is now available to anyone using a browser. Cupertino officials indicate that this new option is available from anywhere in the world, although the fine print of the announcement mentions that availability varies by region. At the time of writing, we tested it from Argentina without any major issues.

It is worth noting, however, that Apple Maps still does not provide a complete or extremely accurate experience with the Internet.Apple points out that this version of its platform is still in beta testing, so it is expected to contain bugs or be missing certain features.

What does this Apple Maps variant offer? When entering the service, we are faced with an interface very similar to that of Google Maps. The map itself takes up most of the interface, with a panel with three sections above the left panel of the screen: search, directions and guides.

With Apple Maps, you can not only search for cities or landmarks anywhere in the world, but also find stores, restaurants, banks, pharmacies, gas stations, etc., near your current location. In the case of guides, you can see quick recommendations and a list to filter by who published them. And if you own a business, you can manage its presence on the map.

Apple Maps Already Has a Web Version, But It’s Missing a Lot

The weakest point of using Apple Maps on the web is directions.. The block platform only offers directions for areas that need to be traveled on foot or by car. This is very limited compared to Google Maps, which also includes estimates for bike, public transport or plane routes, as appropriate.

The accuracy of the routes recommended by Apple Maps is another point that still needs to be improved. In my case, I am in a sector of Argentina that is quite far from major cities such as Buenos Aires, Rosario or Cordoba, so it is logical that it has problems providing routes in areas that can be considered less visited or little known. However, on simple routes where there is a highway or a freeway, I saw pointless recommendationsFor example, bypassing secondary and dirt roads in places where there are no toll booths or other “obstacles” to be avoided.

Obviously, things will improve over time. As we mentioned, the new web version of Apple Maps is available as a beta version and will likely add new features and optimize existing ones over time. As for map visibility, the service offers three options: standard, satellite or hybridA nice aesthetic touch is that the interface switches between light and dark modes depending on which map type is selected.

For now, The web version of Apple Maps is available in English only.. As for supported browsers, they can be accessed from Safari and Chrome on iPadOS and macOS, and from Chrome and Edge on Windows.