Apple Mounts Pressure On Google, Launches Apple Maps Web Beta

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With a test that went live on Wednesday afternoon, you can now check ratings and reviews from the web version of Apple Maps in a desktop or mobile browser, along with driving and walking directions.

Although Apple has stated that it would soon support other languages, it is currently only available in English.

The Apple Maps, the web version which is now live, Apple stated that it will eventually be available for additional devices and browsers.

It currently works with Safari and Chrome on Mac and iPad, as well as Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs.

Similar to its mobile version, Apple Maps on the Web provides features like walking and driving directions, the ability to purchase meals from Maps place cards, access to carefully curated guides and reviews, and more.

Apple has also stated that it will be adding capabilities to the web version in the upcoming months, including the 360-degree panoramic “Look Around” view.

This web launch, which occurred 12 years after Apple originally released Apple Maps on the iPhone, is a noteworthy milestone.

Apple hopes to offer a more flexible and user-friendly mapping service by releasing Apple Maps online, which could entice consumers away from more well-known rivals like Google Maps.

“Now, users can get driving and walking directions; find great places and useful information including photos, hours, ratings, and reviews; take actions like ordering food directly from the Maps place card; and browse curated Guides to discover places to eat, shop, and explore in cities around the world.

“Additional features, including Look Around, will be available in the coming months,” the tech giant wrote.

Indications are that versions of Apple Maps were previously available on the web, thanks to the efforts of developers who leveraged the API to create maps for websites such as DuckDuckGo.

Its official web availability marks a significant increase and may help the app compete with Google, which has been available through web browsers for years.

Earlier report stated that Spain’s antitrust authority announced Wednesday that it has launched an investigation into the terms Apple puts on developers of mobile programs offered on its App Store.