One of the main novelties of iOS - Apple's own maps - undergoes a well-deserved criticism. Apple maps are not as accurate as Google Maps, often offer the user outdated or incomplete data. Three-dimensional, photo-realistic card (Flyover view) satisfactory even for Americans. Why in this case, Apple has released the raw product? It turns out that choice was not simple.
Chris Ziegler, journalist The Verge, writesThat Apple has decided to go on their own maps for the year before the term of the contract expires with Google about the use of Google Maps.
The reasons for this were several. Home: Google slowed the development of iOS-application. The program for the iPhone and iPad has become a much inferior in their capabilities similar Android-application. In particular, owners of iOS-devices have been deprived of a navigation service with voice guidance.
Google, realizing his advantage, began to demand more explicit branding in the app. In addition, the search giant wanted to add features such as Google Latitude ( «Locator Google»).
The decision to refuse to use Google Maps was made precisely in Cupertino. Apple may well have to wait until the expiry of the license agreement. But the lack of voice navigation has pushed the company to take such a step.
It is interesting that Apple until the last moment had been convinced of the superiority of their cards. At the presentation, they were called "beautiful", "luxury", even put the emphasis on what Apple will do all the mapping itself. As a result, they miscalculated. Now, Apple promises to continuously improve and refine the service. Over time it will get better, but for now we have to use alternative solutions.
Tell us what cards you use? Web version of Google Maps? Yandex. Cards? Something else?