The humongous step that Apple needed to take is finally taken. Apple launched a beta variant of Apple Maps on the web. It now means that everyone will be able to access Apple Maps via their web browser. This indeed turns out to be great news for Apple fans. Here is everything you need to know.
What is Apple Maps?
Apple Maps is a navigation app designed for finding places and getting directions. Apple introduced it in the year 2012. Since then, it has improved a lot. It is available on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Now, it is also available on the web. This would make it much easier to be used by more people.
Why is This Important?
It’s a big deal for a few reasons. Firstly, not everyone uses an iPhone or Mac. Now they, too, will have access to Apple Maps. Secondly, this gives people an option. Some may prefer using Apple Maps more than other mapping services. Thirdly, it can help Apple keep pace with Google Maps. Google Maps has had a few years’ head start on the Web. Now Apple Maps can finally join the race.
How to Access Apple Maps on the Web
Accessing Apple Maps through the web is relatively easy. Just follow these steps:
- First, open up your favorite web browser. This would be anything from Safari to Chrome.
- Navigate to the Apple Maps website. You can find it at maps.apple.com.
- Now that you’re ready with Apple Maps, simply search for locations, get directions, or do whatever you want to do.
That is it. Just note that this is still a beta release. That means it could have some kinks. Apple’s probably busy ironing out these issues.
Features of Apple Maps on the Web
There is a lot to Apple Maps on the web. Some of these include the following:
Location Search
Any place can be searched for. Just enter the name of the place within the search bar. Apple Maps will pinpoint its location.
Get Directions
You can get directions from one place to another. This is helpful when you plan a trip. You can know how long it will take you to get there, and it allows you to change modes of transportation. You would be able to pick walking, driving, or public transit.
Look Around
It has an “Look Around” feature, very similar to Google Street View. You can get an idea about the place by looking at a 360-degree view of it. Again, this might not be available everywhere.
Traffic Information
You can get real-time traffic information. This shall help you avoid traffic jams by showing where the accidents or closures are located.
Find Nearby Places in Apple Maps on Web
You can find places near you like restaurants, gas stations, and many other places. It is so helpful, especially when you go to a new area. You know what is near you, and then you make a decision where to go.
How Apple Maps on the Web Can Benefit You
There are many benefits that are brought about by using Apple Maps on the web. Some of them include the following:
Ease of Access
Now, more people can use Apple Maps. It no longer serves only iPhone or Mac users. Any person with a web browser will have access.
Convenience
Using Apple Maps on the web is convenient. There is no need to download any app. You can just open up your browser and use it.
Integration with Other Services
Apple Maps can be integrated with other Apple services. For example, if you log in with your Apple ID, all your saved places will be there. This makes access to all your favorite places quite easy.
Problems and Limitations
While there are so many plusses, there are some minuses too. Here are a few of them:
Beta Version
This is a beta version, as indicated earlier. It may, therefore, have a few bugs. Apple is probably on its way to fix it. However, the user may encounter some issues in using it.
Competition
Apple Maps will enter a market where exists another competitor. Google Maps has been in the market for so long. It is also well liked with several features added. Apple Maps will, therefore, have to struggle to catch up.
Limited Features
Some features may be restricted to the web version. For example, the “Look Around” feature is not available in every area. Apple will have to put some efforts into expanding these features.
Future Updates
Apple most probably will update Apple Maps on the web. Following are the probable updates:
Bug Fixes
Apple most probably will fix the bugs in the beta version. It would make the app more stable.
New Features
Apple could add new functionality to Apple Maps on the web. This might allow for more detailed maps and better traffic information, among others.
Better Integration
Apple might work more on better integration with other services. This might also involve improved integration with Apple ID and other Apple apps.
Conclusion
Apple Maps on the web is one giant move by Apple. That means increasing the access of the application to many more people and providing an alternative tool for navigation. While in some cases, there are some challenges, benefits are clear. Apple is likely to continue bringing improvements in Apple Maps on the web.
