Apple has quietly launched a full version of Apple Maps for mobile web browsers, which means Android users like me can finally use Apple Maps on our devices. But even while I’m excited to give it a try, I don’t think I’ll be leaving Google Maps behind just yet.

Apple Maps Now Works in Any Mobile Browser

The new Apple Maps mobile site, available at maps.apple.com, brings the native Apple Maps to every smartphone browser. 9to5Mac reported that the domain has shifted from beta.apple.maps.com to its new home.

Android users can launch the online Apple map interface on any supported browser, such as Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. Apple users don’t need to, as the Apple Maps app is preinstalled on all devices.

You can access interactive maps, get turn-by-turn directions, search for businesses, and even share live locations directly through messages. Don’t forget to enable location permissions in the browser of your choice.

Apple has built on the desktop and the tablet version of Apple Maps launched last year. Android users couldn’t use it for turn-by-turn directions; they could only view the map. Now, the web version mirrors what iPhone users see in the app, with the same clean UI, navigation, and location tracking baked in.

You can also immersively explore locations with the Look Around feature. Tapping the binoculars icon lets you enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view, much like Google Maps Street View.

Though Apple hasn’t officially announced this change, you might notice the new mobile web experience. You can also check out the Apple Maps Supported Browser list to see if your favorite browser is supported.

It’s Too Early to Ditch Google Maps

Is Apple Maps starting to compete with the giant that’s Google Maps? The timing may be a tiny step as Apple is increasingly under pressure from regulators (especially in the European Union) to open its ecosystem to rivals for better interoperability. Remember, the EU forced Apple to allow Google Maps to be set as the default map on iPhones.

Still, Apple Maps suffers in comparison to Google Maps, which has a vast edge in features and familiarity. Its community features, like user-submitted reviews, photos, and real-time traffic feedback, aren’t fully matched by Apple’s still underdeveloped map. It may not be time to switch from Google Maps yet.

However, Apple’s privacy-first stance and clean interface might appeal to users looking for a simpler, less ad-driven experience. You still can’t log into Apple Maps and save your favorite locations.

This update opens up new ways for Apple Maps to integrate with web-based services, third-party apps, or location-sharing platforms outside the Apple ecosystem. For users like me who don’t want to download another map app, it’s a nice alternative.