Google maps will no longer be featured in Apple devices.
Apple's new update for iOS, which happened Wednesday, will replace Google maps with Apple's Maps.
Google maps have been a part of Apple devices since 2007. Google transformed from being Apple's partner to competitor after it rolled out Android software for phones challenging Apple's iOS.
The new iOS has Apple's own version of the mapping service, "Maps." The technology giants has been working on this service for quite some time , which is clear from its acquisition of three mapping companies in a time span of three years.
Apple's Maps contain new features like Flyover, that shows 3D model images of buildings in major cities and spoken turn-by-turn directions. Panning and zooming in the app is faster. Then there is Yelp, where the user can search for restaurants and read reviews. The other important feature is Siri, the voice-based assistant that will help the user with almost anything.
For Apple this is a new area and it has to make its services better and robust. Apple's Maps have glitches and holes, The New York Times reported.
"Apple used their platform dominance to privilege their own app over a competitor's offering, even though it's a worse experience for users," said Anil Dash, a New York-based entrepreneur in his blog.
The Maps app does not show up the right addresses at times and complete names must be typed. While Google maps show the right location even if there is variations in spelling.
"Not being able to find businesses or points of interest without spelling a name 100 percent perfectly could cause some grief. That problem combined with inaccurate street addresses could be superfrustrating," said Trenton Fuller, a computer systems administrator and owner of iPhone and iPad, The New York Times reported.
Apple Maps do not have their own built-in information for public transport. The company allows users to download third-party transit apps for this.
Google, can build their own maps app for iOS devices and can submit it for approval from Google. Users can also use mobile Web browsers to access Google maps, though when compared to the app, it looks clumsy.
The older iPhones and users who have not upgraded to new iOS will still be able to use Google maps.
Perhaps with more users and experience Apple's Maps might come on par with that of Google maps.
