Apple has launched Apple Maps on the web in public beta, allowing users around the world to access Maps directly from their browser.
The launch puts Apple Maps in direct competition with Google Maps, which has long been available on the web.
Now, users can get driving and walking directions; find great places and useful information including photos, hours, ratings, and reviews; take actions like ordering food directly from the Maps place card; and browse curated Guides to discover places to eat, shop, and explore in cities around the world.
Many of the features from the desktop app are missing in the browser version. The interface is pretty sparse, offering only Search, Guides, and Directions, while the data layers on offer are Standard, Hybrid, and Satellite (the desktop app version also has a 3D toggle, Apple’s Look Around function, additional data layers, and more).
The experience is similar to that on iDevices. Users can get driving and walking directions and there are curated Guides to discover places to eat, shop, and explore in cities around the world. There are also photos, hours, ratings, and reviews to be found.
Additional features, including Look Around, will be available in the coming months.
All developers, including those using MapKit JS, can also link out to Maps on the web, so their users can get driving directions, see detailed place information, and more.
Maps on the Web is available in English, and is compatible with Safari and Chrome on Mac and iPad, as well as Chrome and Edge on Windows PCs.
Support for additional languages, browsers, and platforms will be expanded over time.
