Because Apple has reportedly been working on its own mapping software, there were expectations that the company might drop Google Maps in the upcoming iOS 5 to be unveiled next week at the WWDC in favor of its own solution.
Google's ex CEO Eric Schmidt put an end to the speculation and confirmed yesterday at the D9 conference keynote that Google had just renewed its search and maps partnership with Apple, has we had already hinted at 4 days ago...
Maps+ is a new app, by IZE, that offers a more robust Google Maps experience than the native Maps app on the iPhone. With Maps+, you have more control and customization over your Maps experience on iOS.
The app goes beyond what the stock Maps app has to offer with features like a powerful location tracking tool and social media integration. More details after the break!
We've reported on several occasions that Apple has been looking to revamp its Maps application in iOS. After the purchase of PlaceBase and multiple suspicious job listings, we certainly have had reason to believe that Apple has some major changes in mind for the Maps app.
The big question has been (with Apple and Google quickly becoming competitors across multiple markets): will Google continue to have a hand in the Maps application?
Google is now allowing you to use Google Maps directly from the browser, without having to use an application. Simply point your iPhone to maps.google.com and after allowing the web app to use your current location, Google Maps will locate you and offer various options that are already available through the native app.
The app works pretty well, although it took me a minute or so to really figure out how everything worked, especially how to get directions and switch back and forth with the maps. Maybe that's just me though. It's still early and my brain probably isn't at 100%.
This being said, the conspiracy theorist in me thinks there is a reason why Google is releasing Google Maps for the browser at this time...