Apple Maps launches on the web to take on Google

It has always been surprising that Apple introduced Apple Maps in 2012 on iPhones, but refused to take it to the web like Google did with Google Maps, leaving its accessibility limited and confined within the Apple ecosystem.

If you have been waiting to see the day Apple introduces its Map to the web to compete with Google as Google Maps advances, Apple has finally decided to jump into the competition after 12 years.

Apple maps which could only be accessed on iPhone, iPad, or Mac, is now available on the web, following the launch of the beta on Wednesday.

With this release, you no longer need Apple devices to access the map, you can now access directions from the Apple Maps website. The web version is no different from the mobile app, providing driving and walking directions, food ordering, curated guides, and reviews.

While this is exciting, the release has limited features, as it has language support for just English, and is compatible with Safari and Chrome on Mac and iPad, along with Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs.

Apple, however, has promised to provide more language support and browser compatibility, with additional features to the map including the "Look Around" panoramic views.

With Google's head start and extensive feature set, quick adoption will undoubtedly be an uphill battle for Apple. Yet, if Apple can leverage its strengths in design, privacy, and integration with its other services, it could carve out a niche for itself in the mapping market.