Google has officially released its Google Maps app for Apple’s iPhone and iPod Touch, the company announced in a blog post Wednesday. The move comes months after Apple replaced Google Maps with its own mapping service, sparking widespread user complaints.
The new Google Maps app is available for free in Apple’s App Store and is compatible with devices running iOS 5.1 or later. Google’s return to iOS marks a significant shift after Apple dropped the service in September, when it launched the iPhone 5 and iOS 6.
Apple’s in-house mapping service, powered by data from Dutch firm TomTom NV, has faced heavy criticism for inaccuracies, missing landmarks, and a lack of key features such as transit directions—all of which were staples of Google Maps. The backlash was so severe that Apple CEO Tim Cook publicly apologized and even suggested users try alternatives while the company worked on improvements.
Google’s relaunch on iOS is expected to be welcomed by millions of users who relied on its detailed maps, turn-by-turn navigation, and Street View. The app also integrates with Google’s broader services, including business listings and real-time traffic updates.
Neither Apple nor Google has commented on whether the app’s return signals a broader reconciliation between the two tech rivals. For now, iPhone users once again have a choice—between Apple’s improving but flawed maps and Google’s established industry leader.
Relation topics:
- “YouTube SEO King” Unveils New Creator Platform
- In 2025, User Engagement Overtakes Keywords in SEO Rankings
- Is Webflow the Best Platform for Your Blog in 2025?
