Apple Maps Launches Web Beta to Compete with Google Maps

Apple has introduced Apple Maps on the web, now available for use on Safari and Chrome browsers for Mac and iPad users, as well as Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs. This new web version is currently in public beta and features essential functions like directions, business information, points of interest, and Guides.

Future updates are expected to include additional features such as Look Around. Developers can now integrate Apple Maps into their websites to offer detailed place information and directions.

Users interested in exploring this new web beta can visit beta.maps.apple.com. Currently, it is available in English, with plans to expand language support, browser compatibility, and platform access over time.

Google Maps' Cross-Device Dominance

Despite Apple Maps' new web presence, Google Maps continues to lead the navigation app market due to its extensive cross-device compatibility.

Google Maps works seamlessly across various platforms, including Android and iOS phones and tablets, in-car systems, smartwatches, and the web. This widespread accessibility has allowed Google Maps to maintain dominance in navigation services, even in regions with a significant iOS user base.

Apple's Move Towards Broader Accessibility

Historically, Apple has restricted its services to its own hardware, but the company has been gradually extending its services to the web. This expansion began with Apple Music in 2019 and Apple TV+ at launch.

Now, Apple Maps joins this trend with its new web beta, nearly 12 years after its initial release. Previously, Apple Maps was exclusively available on Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches.

Current Features and Limitations

The web beta version of Apple Maps currently supports walking and driving directions. However, it does not yet offer transit and biking directions available on mobile versions of the app.

The web interface includes Guides, which provide recommendations for dining, activities, and travel, focusing mainly on major U.S. cities and Toronto, Canada. Users can search for restaurants and businesses, view contact information, and occasionally order food directly from the Maps place card, although this feature is still limited.

Future Developments and Expansion Plans

Apple Maps' Look Around feature, which is similar to Google Maps' Street View, is expected to be introduced in future updates. Apple is also encouraging developers to link their locations to Apple Maps on their websites, akin to Google Maps embeds.

This will enable users to get directions and view detailed place information directly from linked sites. Currently, the web-based Apple Maps beta is accessible only on Safari and Google Chrome for Mac and iPad, and on Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge for Windows PCs. It is not yet available on Android devices or Safari on iPhone. Apple plans to broaden support for additional languages, browsers, and platforms in the future.