Google releases new iPhone map app after Apple's lost direction

 
13 December 2012

Google has released a maps app for the iPhone after Apple's own version was widely criticised for its mistakes.

The iPhone's default maps app was previously powered by Google until Apple took over with its own software in early September, meaning iPhone users could not access Google Maps.

But Apple's Maps app received complaints worldwide for its obvious mistakes, such as putting Dublin airport on a farm, and its lack of public transport directions and traffic information.

The new Google Maps app will include these features, for which they are famous, as well as rotating 2D and 3D views and street view, according to a Google blog post.

It will be available for the iPhone and iPod Touch (4G) iOS 5.1 and higher, and will work in more than 40 countries and 29 languages.

Daniel Graf, director of Google Maps for Mobile, wrote: "The app shows more map on screen and turns mobile mapping into one intuitive experience.

"It is designed from the ground up to combine the comprehensiveness and accuracy of Google Maps with an interface that makes finding what you're looking for faster and easier."

The flawed Apple Maps software once led Australian drivers to a remote state park where they were stranded, after misplacing the southern city Mildura.

After a series of serious errors, Apple boss Tim Cook was forced to issue a humble public apology, saying: "We are extremely sorry. We are doing everything we can to make Maps better."

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