Apple Maps has continuously improved and established itself since its rocky start a few years ago. While the map app was previously only available on Apple devices, Apple has now taken a significant step: a beta version of Apple Maps can now be used directly in the web browser. This development puts Apple Maps in direct competition with Google Maps and opens up new usage possibilities for many platforms.
For a long time, Apple Maps was an exclusive product for users of Apple devices. But the new web beta version opens the door to wider use. This change is not only a technical advancement but could also have a significant impact on the maps market. It is particularly interesting to see how Apple Maps compares to Google Maps and what new possibilities it offers you as a user. Let's take a closer look at this exciting development together.
availability and compatibility
The new beta version of Apple Maps is a significant Step towards platform independence. You can now use Apple Maps directly in your web browser if you use Safari or Chrome on a Mac or iPad, or Chrome or Edge on a Windows PC. Other platforms such as Android phones, Firefox or Linux are not currently supported, but Apple plans to add them in the future. This expansion makes Apple Maps accessible to a much wider user base.
functions and features
The beta version of Apple Maps offers you a number of features that you already know from the native app:
- Route planning: Whether on foot or by car, route planning is just as intuitive and precise as in the native app.
- Travel Guides: This feature, which Apple introduced last year, is now available in the web beta. You can access a variety of travel guides from the sidebar.
- Look Around: Similar to Google Street View, Apple offers 360-degree views of streets and places with Look Around. This feature is not yet available in the web beta, but is expected to follow in a few months.
performance and user experience
Using Apple Maps in the web browser is surprisingly smooth, especially if you use Safari on a Mac. Although the frame rate is lower than in the native app, the web beta is comfortable to use and has no major limitations. This shows that Apple places a lot of value on a good user experience, even in the beta phase.
language and platform support
Currently, the beta version is only available in English, which somewhat limits its use for non-English speaking users. However, Apple has announced that it will gradually expand support for other languages and platforms, showing that Apple is committed to improving accessibility and convenience for all users.
Apple Maps on the Web: A Significant Milestone
The launch of the Apple Maps web beta is a significant step for Apple and its users. It opens up new possibilities and puts Apple Maps in direct competition with Google Maps. Even though not all functions and platforms are supported yet, the current beta version shows that Apple is on the right track. It will be exciting to see how Apple Maps develops and what new functions will be added in the future. Try Just try out the new web beta of Apple Maps and discover the possibilities for yourself! (Photo by DenPhoto / Bigstockphoto)