Apple, it seems, is bent on removing Google's involvement in every possible way. Recently, the improved iOS 6 Maps has introduced a new turn-by-turn navigation for drivers and walkers alike, along with opening up transit and other specific direction help for third parties. In the process, the Cupertino-based company has finally managed to sever all partnerships with Google as far as mapping the planet is concerned.
Previously, Apple, with the introduction of iOS 6, was said to be following a strategy that would see the company wipe off Google Maps. A later report stated that the company would be introducing vector graphics to greatly improve the Maps experience in iOS, while another averred that the company would be adding 3D Flyover features to displace Google's Street View.
Now, per an AppleInsider report, "Apple is similarly cutting Google out of its prime position as the exclusive source of iOS Maps directions." In 2009, Google introduced the new Maps Navigation for Android 2.0 and the then new feature came with a series of new mapping features (including voice prompted, turn-by-turn navigation features, voice search, item searching along a plotted route, and 3D models).
Apple, however, declined from adding Google's Navigation features, Google Latitude, Places, 3D models, and other map features to its own iOS Maps client. Instead, over the years, the company built a complete replacement through a series of acquisitions and partnerships.
The additions included driving and walking directions, introduction of SIRI, live traffic info, and a host of other new features. Currently, Apple draws information from GPS and map provider TomTom, and provides the exact information that the company managed to acquire while with Google.
So what happens to Google now? To begin with, the company will begin losing the constant updates it was getting from iOS clients, forcing it to rely only on Android users who get their data from Google. However, the bad news for Google is that a variety of Android devices are already looking at alternative mapping systems, which includes the recent mapping partnership between Amazon and Nokia.
Only time will tell what is to become of Google's popular mapping feature. Whether iOS will get the better of them or if other alternative solutions will rule the market which Google so carefully built over time.
