Ten years after the mobile app debuted, Apple Maps is finally coming to the web, in beta for now. But this mapping and guidance service is still far from matching Google Maps.
Apple Maps, launched in 2012, received a rather mixed reception, to say the least. And for good reason: the company had chosen to use maps provided by TomTom, which very quickly caused problems in terms of updates. It was not uncommon for users to find themselves faced with new unmapped roads or road signs prohibiting them from passing. But after this difficult beginning, the service ended up establishing itself as the default solution for Apple product owners.
The fact remains that, until now, Maps was only available on Apple devices. It was not accessible on the Web, unlike its main rival, Google Maps. But that time is over! In a blog postApple announces that its service is now accessible in beta through a web browser. On Mac, it is compatible with Safari and Chrome, while on PC, only Chrome and Edge are supported.
Apple Maps on the web: limited features for now
This version of Apple Maps on the web lets you get walking and driving directions, find places of interest, access detailed information about businesses and shops, and order food directly from restaurant listings. The service offers a standard, satellite, and hybrid map view. Also included are thematic guides with commentary and the ability to search the map by keyword to explore places. The “Look Around” feature, the equivalent of Google Maps’ immersive first-person Street View, is coming in the coming months.
So we’re still a long way from the multitude of features of Google Maps, which still has a good head start. For now, the version of Apple Maps on the web is only offered in English, but it is available worldwide. The company promises gradual support for additional languages, browsers and platforms. For those who want to experience this new interface, just type “beta.maps.apple.com” in the address bar of a compatible browser.