Apple Maps on the web now also for mobile devices

Once it was only possible to use Apple Maps via app – and it was and is only available for MacOS, iOS and iPados. In the meantime, the iPhone manufacturer has also provided a browser version: it has been available since summer 2024: initially as beta and only for certain browsers, now also for Firefox and with more features, including the street photo service. Now Apple begins to roll out the web application for mobile devices. This goes from one freshly published support document out.

More browser, more platforms

As Apple writes, Maps no longer only runs on Mac and PC – and there under Safari (only MacOS), Chromium (Chrome, Edge) and Firefox – but also on mobile devices with safari (iOS and iPados), Chrome, Edge and Firefox (the latter also Android). However, the group warns that not all regions are covered. In addition, “Maps on the Web” is currently available in English by default. The service will “soon” support other browsers, platforms and languages.

Apple’s idea will at least compete with the big rival Google Maps under Android and Windows. Apple Maps is currently still ad -free; There is always speculation that this will change soon. Apple has been trying to open up new sources of income with its rapidly growing service area for several years. So there have been advertising in the App Store for years. In order for this to be worthwhile with Maps, customers have to reach as many platforms as possible, not just Apple devices.

Not all functions yet

When using Apple Maps on the web, it should be borne in mind that you can still only get the “Full Experience” in the app for Mac, iPhone and iPad. Functions are submitted step by step, but some of the app should be reserved, also because this represents a sales argument for iPhones, iPads and Macs for Apple.

Google Maps bridged the horse the other way around: the web version was the beginning, now the app is of enormous importance for all important mobile platforms, even for navigation in the car. Apple recently enabled the EU to define Google Maps as a default app on the iPhone and thus replace Apple Maps if the user wishes.