It`s no secret; Google still holds the reigns of mobile navigational apps. It can be remembered that the Google Maps was even the preferred choice for Apple products before, Apple introduced its rival map- Apple Maps on iOS 6 in 2012. The Apple Map is now the default map option for iPhones and iPads.
However, the Apple Maps launching was not smooth and easy. Like any startup, Apple Maps had a rocky launch. The Apple map was filled with inconsistencies, inaccurate data presentation and flimsy. In a nutshell, it delivered nothing a mobile navigation app is meant to. However, the frustration bugs were too messy to be ignored, that even Apple`s CEO, to its credit, was quick to concede the flimsiness of the app, and years later, the Apple app has improved considerably. Even though Google Maps still hold the coveted spot on your iPhone, Apple has done a considerable job of improving the efficacy of their app. Currently, the Apple Maps is as pragmatic as any mobile navigational software, and we can authoritatively confirm that some of the Apple Map`s feature can surpass Google Maps software. While many might be quick to banish the Apple app, you should remember that Google Maps had a six-year head-start before Apple Map was launched. Additionally, unlike other Apple products, which rival Google products, Apple Map has remained steadfast and has even attracted a wide client base. For an exhaustive comparison and review, we shall pit the two maps head on, and determine their suitability. Price and Availability Both apps are readily available and for free. Apple Maps comes with a pre-installed app on all Apple devices, while Google Maps can be downloaded from Google store, free of charge. Fortunately, you can have both apps installed on a single device, but you must set one as a default navigational option, although you can still use the other if you wish. However, for the Apple preinstalled version, it`s subject to updates whenever Apple releases a new update of the Apple Map. For example, the addition of public-transport direction, was part of Apples, Apple Map update in 2015. Accuracy of Data The accuracy and preciseness of data conveyed to the users of the navigational maps is probably the most important aspect. As we have stated in the introduction, Apple Maps was initially faced with teething navigational issues including providing wrong information, wrong directions and double presentation of landmarks. However, with the recent updates and new Apple Maps rolling out, the ruinous gaffes have been fixed. So how do the two compare regarding accuracy? Google has been on the frontline of ensuring accurate data presentation. First, the big G bought Skybox-a satellite imagery firm. With Skybox resources at its disposal, Google can now provide its user with high-resolution images and near-accurate data. If you think that`s all, you need to think again. Google has a team of operators, who are tasked with the process of verifying, or rather checking the accuracy of their data manually. Finally, Google has upped its customer relation game by rapidly responding to any issues raised and fixing the errors as needed. On the other hand, Apple has followed a similar suit and has acquired several mapping companies including Locationary and HopStop. The firms focus on crowdsourcing location data and data collection respectively. Further unconfirmed reports indicate that Apple is set to incorporate a new Mechanical-Turk style user program, that aims at using people on the ground to contribute to the verification of their Apple Maps information. Errors and Inaccuracies This is one area that Google Maps outclasses the Apple Maps. While iOS app development Singapore Apple Maps will not entirely lead you to the wrong direction, Google Maps has done a better job of fine-tuning their data on minor details such as accurately placing the business markers, the accurate naming of town postcodes and building footprints. While both maps may have an accurate and detailed representation of large and major cities, Google Maps has the upper hand in the less-known and remotely located region. Turn-by-turn Navigation When it comes to direction, both maps are sure to get you to your destination. However, here Apple Maps topples over Google Maps, thanks to its 3D overview that offers superb turn-by-turn directions, which Google Maps does not provide. Google Maps only has a satellite view, that offers mild 3D view during turn-by-turn navigation by swiping up the satellite view with two fingers. While the overview/3D view is not the best angle to view your directions, it can be quite handy in big cities with tall buildings and landmarks. The Apple 3D view will provide you with a better view of the overall layout of the land as you move from one point to the other. However, this feature is still not available in all cities. Unique Features While there`s a lot of similarities between the two maps, the also exist some notable differences. Flyover view The flyover view is only found in Apple Maps and is contrary to the street view in Google Maps. With the flyover mode activated in Apple Maps, users can “fly” over the city and allows you to tilt your phone for 3D views. Its` available in many cities. Street View As opposed to flyover view, the street view by Google Maps offers users a street-level type of view of where they are going, thus, providing them with a better idea of their final location. Conclusion We expected Google Maps to trounce Apple Maps in every department. However, contrary to our beliefs, Apple Maps has greatly improved since it was launched. It has incorporated new and exciting features, some of which have beat Google Maps hand down. The turn-by-turn navigation that capitalizes on 3D navigation is perhaps the biggest win of Apple over Google. Nonetheless, the Apple still has a long way to go before it reaches Google Maps status. Google Maps has an array of useful features. Even so, both maps still have room for improvement; they are still not picture-perfect and have some errors and inconsistencies.
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