As you’re aware by now, Apple’s new Maps app that replaces the old default Google Maps-based mapping app in the latest version of iOS, is not going over very well with the first users. Misplaced locations, mangled satellite imagery and more have been noted and mocked widely. For those wondering if you’ll be able to revert to Google Maps on the iPhone in iOS 6, the answer looks like “possibly.” The Guardian says it’s heard from sources that Google is working on brand new Google Maps for iOS app.
The Guardian report says Google is secretly finding a bit of satisfaction in the abuse Apple is taking over its Maps app. And you can’t necessarily blame them, since Apple for whatever reason decided to dump all Google default apps in the new version of iOS, which included Maps and YouTube. Google has already submitted — and Apple approved — a new YouTube iOS app.
According to The Guardian, ”Google is preparing a Google Maps app for iOS 6, which will appear in time. No official statement has been made and there will inevitably be questions over whether Apple will approve it in the App Store.”
But when will that be? Techcrunch says it’ll be “before Christmas.” That’s a long time to suffer with inadequate mapping services for new iPhone 5 users and for those who upgrade to iOS 6. 9to5 Mac said Google has actually submitted a maps app to Apple and is waiting for approval.
It’s not necessarily a sure thing that Apple will allow a Google Maps app. But at the same time, it’s hard to picture Apple deliberately keeping a high-profile competitor’s app out of the App Store, especially because it’s run afoul of regulators by doing that in the past with Google Voice. Plus, Apple’s not dumb. The company is usually pretty smart about understanding how to rectify customers’ problems and disappointments. In this case, it needs to address the issue quickly before the Maps problems derail the iPhone 5 launch.
Apple seems to be aware of the general response. A company representative told AllThingsD Thursday, “We launched this new map service knowing it is a major initiative and that we are just getting started with it. Maps is a cloud-based solution and the more people use it, the better it will get. We appreciate all of the customer feedback and are working hard to make the customer experience even better.”
