Apple has just launched a public beta version of its Maps service for web browsers, in a bid to take on Google Maps. However, it is important to note that both Apple Maps and Google Maps offer robust navigation and mapping services with the latter having an edge in terms of global coverage and detailed information. Apple Maps has also made significant strides in recent years and offers a more privacy-focused approach with seamless integration for Apple users.
The choice between the two is subjective and often comes down to personal preference, device ecosystem, and specific use cases. However, Google Maps is more popular in India compared to Apple Maps in the wake of the bigger market share that Android devices have, which come pre-installed with Google Maps. Android has a much larger market share in India as compared to iOS devices. In this article, we compare the key differences between the two navigation apps.
Google Maps vs Apple Maps: Coverage And Data Quality
- Google Maps has wider global coverage
- More detailed mapping in rural and less populated areas
- Frequently updated via user contributions and data collection
- Apple Maps has improved significantly in recent years, but still lags behind in some regions
- Stronger in urban areas, especially in the United States
- Lacks the extensive user contribution system of Google Maps
Google Maps vs Apple Maps: Navigation And Directions
- Google Maps offers multiple route options with real-time traffic updates
- Provides public transit, cycling, and walking directions in many cities
- Includes lane guidance and speed limit information
- Apple Maps provides smooth integration with iOS devices and Siri
- Offers turn-by-turn navigation with clear visual and audio cues
- Recently added cycling directions and EV routing
Google Maps vs Apple Maps: Accuracy And Reliability
- Google Maps is generally considered more accurate, especially in less populated areas
- Benefits from longer history and larger user base for data correction
- Apple Maps has shown significant improvements since its rocky launch
- Very reliable in major urban areas, but can struggle in more remote locations
Google Maps vs Apple Maps: Privacy
- Google Maps collects more user data for personalisation and improvement
- Offers incognito mode for privacy-conscious users
- Apple Maps emphasises user privacy, with features like random identifiers for location data
- Does not build a personal profile based on your search and navigation history
Google Maps vs Apple Maps: User Interface
- Google Maps has more information-dense interface
- Customisable with various layers (traffic, transit, satellite)
- Can appear cluttered to some users
- Apple Maps has a cleaner, more minimalist design
- Has 3D "Flyover" view for major cities
- Look Around feature (similar to Google's Street View)
Google Maps vs Apple Maps: Additional Features
- Google Maps has Street View (360-degree street-level imagery)
- Extensive POI (Points of Interest) database
- Offline maps for use without Internet connection
- User reviews and ratings for businesses
- Apple Maps has indoor mapping for airports and shopping centres
- Integration with Apple Wallet for reservations and tickets
- Privacy-focused features
Google Maps vs Apple Maps: Platform Integration
- Google Maps is available on iOS and Android, with full feature parity
- Integrates well with other Google services (e.g. Google Search, Google Photos)
- Apple Maps is deeply integrated into iOS and macOS
- Works seamlessly with other Apple services and devices