Google Maps AR vs Apple Maps AR
Mixed Reality (MR) has brought a new dimension to the way we view maps. We can now visualize directions and points of interest overlaid on the real world, giving us a more immersive experience. Two of the biggest players in the AR mapping space are Google Maps AR and Apple Maps AR. In this blog post, we provide a factual unbiased comparison of both the applications and highlight their strengths and weaknesses.
Google Maps AR
Google Maps AR is a part of the popular navigation app, Google Maps. It uses augmented reality technology to overlay digital images and directions onto the real-world environment. Google Maps AR has been lauded as a game-changer for pedestrian navigation by providing a more intuitive and immersive experience.
Some of the key features of Google Maps AR are:
- Public transport directions
- Street view images
- Flight schedules
- Indoor maps
Google Maps has over 1 billion active users every month from more than 220 countries and territories. In 2021, Google Maps AR had over 20 million monthly active users.
Apple Maps AR
Apple Maps AR is a part of the Apple Maps application that uses augmented reality technology to offer more immersive direction and locator information. Apple Maps AR provides detailed and accurate 3D maps of locations worldwide.
The key features of Apple Maps AR are:
- 3D features
- Flyover mode
- Detailed business information
- Integrated with Siri for ease of use
Apple Maps AR had more than 100 million users in 2021, with over 90% of iPhone users using the app to navigate.
Comparison: Google Maps AR vs Apple Maps AR
When comparing the two mapping giants, the following emerging differences arise:
Availability
Google Maps AR is available on both iOS and Android, while Apple Maps AR is available only on iOS. This means that Google Maps AR has a larger potential userbase, owing to its cross-platform availability.
Accuracy
Apple Maps AR is widely considered to be more accurate in its directions than Google Maps AR. Apple Maps AR uses data from its own set of sensors, which makes its directions, especially pedestrian ones, more precise.
Google Maps AR is still highly accurate, but being part of the larger Google Maps ecosystem, it depends on user feedback for directions.
User Experience
Google Maps AR has been lauded for its intuitive user experience that makes it easy to navigate without having to refer to the app constantly.
Apple Maps AR has a slightly steeper learning curve but provides a more immersive experience when using the Flyover terrain view.
Other Features
Google Maps AR provides more extensive public transport directions, street view images, and indoor maps.
Apple Maps AR, on the other hand, offers a more detailed and accurate 3D view, integrated with Siri, which makes it easy to use hands-free.
Conclusion
Both Google Maps AR and Apple Maps AR offer unique features and benefits to their users. Google Maps AR has a larger user base and more extensive features, while Apple Maps AR is more accurate and offers a more immersive experience. Hence, choosing one over the other depends on the individual preferences of the user.
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