What you should know
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- Apple Maps has significantly improved since its initial launch in 2012, when it was criticized for numerous errors and inaccuracies, leading to Apple CEO Tim Cook recommending alternative map applications.
- Apple Maps now offers more intuitive directions compared to Google Maps, such as using landmarks for navigation cues, making it potentially easier to follow for users.
- Apple Maps is the default navigation app on iOS, but with the upcoming iOS 18 release, Apple plans to allow users in the EU to change their default navigation app due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
- This change, aimed for March 2025, could potentially extend beyond the EU, offering more flexibility for iPhone users worldwide in choosing their preferred navigation app.
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Full Story
Oh, the dilemma of being an iPhone user – choosing between Apple Maps and Google Maps for getting around. It’s almost like picking between coffee or tea in the morning. Tough, right? There was a time, believe it or not, when even the folks at Apple would’ve nudged you towards Google Maps. Yep, back in the chaotic days of 2012.
Apple Maps had just hit the scene, and let’s just say it was a bit of a mess. Countries playing hide and seek on the map, some places didn’t even get a name tag, and directions? Oh boy, they could’ve sent you on a wild goose chase. Following Apple Maps was like playing a game of “hope I don’t end up in a lake.” It was so bad that Tim Cook, the big boss at Apple, had to come out and say sorry. He even suggested using other map apps. Imagine that!
But, oh, how the tables have turned. Fast forward to now, and Apple Maps is not just playing catch-up; it’s giving Google Maps a run for its money. One cool thing? Apple Maps has a knack for giving directions that feel more human. Instead of saying “turn right in a third of a mile,” it’s more like, “Hey, at the next stop sign, make a right.” Feels friendlier, doesn’t it?
Now, onto something a bit geeky but super important. Apple’s shaking things up with iOS 18. They’re planning to let some of us iPhone users pick our default navigation app. That’s right, freedom of choice is coming to our fingertips. This little nugget of info was tucked away in a document Apple shared, all official-like, called the “Non-Confidential Summary of DMA Compliance Report.” Catchy, huh?
This change is mainly for the folks in the EU, thanks to something called the Digital Markets Act (DMA). But hey, who knows? Maybe Apple will throw a bone to us stateside and let everyone pick their preferred map app come March 2025. Could be Google Maps, could be Waze, or maybe something entirely new. The possibilities are as wide as the open road.
