Apple Maps is taking on Google Maps by releasing a web app that can be used in a mobile or desktop browser instead of the native app.
Apple Maps debuted in 2012 as an iPhone app and later expanded to the iPad and Mac. For years, developers could embed interactive maps directly into their apps and websites using Apple’s MapsKit JS API.
And now, they can link out to the web app so their customers can get driving directions, see detailed place information, use satellite view and more, all in a web browser. In other words, Apple’s announcement means that our friends on Windows and Android can use Apple Maps on the web just like Google Maps.
Apple Maps launches a web app in public beta
To try out the web app, visit beta.maps.apple.com in the Safari, Chrome or Edge browser. The experience is currently available in English, but additional languages, browsers, and platforms will be expanded over time.
The interface resembles the native app, with the ability to access search, browse guides and get walking and driving directions from the sidebar. Many advanced features work, like city guides, avoiding tolls and highways during navigation, route planner and local businesses with photos, hours, ratings and reviews.
Curated city guides make finding local businesses like your favorite eateries a cinch. With place cards supported on the web, you can even perform actions like ordering food. Because this is a public beta, some essential features like street Look Around don’t work yet but will be available “in the coming months.”