After twelve years since the launch of the Apple Maps app on iOS 6, Apple has introduced a beta version of Apple Maps for the web. This enables users to access Apple’s navigation services directly from their web browsers. With this release, Apple plans to challenge Google Maps which has long been the dominant player in web-based navigation.
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Apple Maps was first introduced in 2012 as part of iOS 6, replacing Google Maps as the default navigation tool on Apple devices.
Despite a rocky start characterized by inaccuracies and user dissatisfaction, Apple has steadily improved its mapping service over the years.
The launch of Apple Maps on the web is a step in Apple’s strategy to expand its reach and compete with Google Maps which has long been the go-to service for web-based navigation.
By making Map available on the web, Apple plans to provide a mapping experience across all platforms not just iOS devices.
The web version of Map is accessible through beta.maps.apple.com and it supports popular browsers like Safari and Chrome on Mac and iPad as well as Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs.
Initially available only in English, Apple plans to roll out support for additional languages, browsers and platforms in the near future.
Users can obtain driving and walking directions directly from the web version, a convenient alternative for planning routes and navigating unfamiliar areas.
The interface is designed to be user-friendly, allowing for easy input of destinations and route adjustments.
Apple Maps on the web provides users with access to ratings and reviews for various locations helping users make informed decisions about places to visit.
The service includes curated guides that highlight popular attractions, restaurants and shopping venues in cities worldwide.
These guides are designed to assist users in exploring new places and discovering local gems. This feature is beneficial for travelers seeking curated experiences and insights into local culture.
Users can directly order food from restaurants through the Maps interface, streamlining the process and adding a layer of convenience for users seeking dining options.
Business information including operating hours, photos, and contact details is available within the web version enabling users to gather essential information about businesses in their vicinity.
This feature aims to provide users with a one-stop solution for accessing critical business information without needing additional searches.
Apple has announced plans to introduce additional features such as Look Around, which offers interactive 3D street-level views similar to Google Maps’ Street View.
The beta version of Maps offers an interface similar to its app counterpart allowing users to easily obtain driving and walking directions directly from their web browsers.
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The layout is designed for ease of use with features like clear indicators for traffic conditions including color-coded roads for traffic congestion.
Users have the option to choose routes that avoid tolls, providing a cost-effective alternative for navigation.
Apple Maps allows users to plan routes for future dates making it convenient for trip planning and time management.
Users can view high-quality images and operating hours of various places enabling them to make informed decisions about where to visit. Apple Maps integrates user reviews and ratings.
The service includes place cards that provide essential information such as contact details and options for services like food ordering directly from the map interface.
The curated guides feature is designed to help users discover recommended spots for dining, shopping and exploring in cities around the world.
These guides are especially useful for travelers seeking curated recommendations tailored to specific interests or themes.
Apple Maps offers three map views allowing users to switch between standard, hybrid and satellite views for a more customized navigation experience.
Apple Maps plans to introduce the Look Around feature, a interactive 3D street-level imagery akin to Google Maps’ Street View.
Developers using MapKit JS can link their applications to Apple Maps on the web, enabling users to access driving directions and place information within third-party applications.
This integration allows for a more unified experience across different platforms and services.
The web-based Apple Maps is accessible via Safari and Chrome on Mac and iPad, as well as Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs.
Users can access the beta version by visiting beta.maps.apple.com, currently available in English.
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