Apple Maps Now Accessible on Android via Web Client — Install as a PWA
In a unexpected initiative that connects different platforms, Apple has launched its Apple Maps service for Android users through a beta web client. This represents a noteworthy advancement in Apple’s broader plan to extend its services beyond its native ecosystem. Although a dedicated Apple Maps app for Android is yet to be released, users can now experience a near-native interface by installing the web version as a Progressive Web App (PWA).
What’s Different with Apple Maps on Android?
As of June 2024, Apple Maps has become officially available on Android devices through mobile web browsers. This follows the introduction of a beta web client that initially catered only to desktops and tablets. Now, Android users can directly visit maps.apple.com from their mobile browser to utilize Apple’s mapping service.
The interface and functionalities remain mostly in line with the desktop version, providing features such as:
– Turn-by-turn navigation
– Real-time traffic information
– Points of interest
– Street-level imagery (Look Around)
Nevertheless, some restrictions still apply. The web client currently lacks support for Apple ID sign-ins, which means users are unable to access saved locations, guides, or customized settings from their Apple devices. Furthermore, certain types of directions—such as public transit routes in specific cities—might not be fully functional yet.
How to Set Up Apple Maps as a PWA on Android
Though there is no separate Apple Maps app available in the Google Play Store, Android users can still enjoy an app-like experience by installing the web client as a Progressive Web App (PWA). PWAs are web applications that function similarly to native apps, providing quicker load times, offline capabilities, and home screen shortcuts.
Here’s how to set up Apple Maps as a PWA on your Android device:
1. Launch your preferred mobile browser (like Chrome) and go to https://maps.apple.com.
2. Tap the three-dot menu icon located in the upper-right corner of the browser.
3. Choose “Add to Home screen.”
4. Confirm by selecting “Install.”
After installation, Apple Maps will appear on your home screen with a unique icon, enabling you to open it just like any other application.
Significance of This Development
Apple’s choice to release Apple Maps for Android—even in a limited web-based format—indicates a significant shift in the company’s stance on cross-platform compatibility. While Apple has previously made apps like Apple Music and Apple TV+ available for Android, Apple Maps has remained confined to its own devices until now.
This initiative could be interpreted as a strategy to compete more closely with Google Maps, which commands the mobile navigation market. By providing a web-based option, Apple can reach users who may not have an iPhone but still wish to explore its mapping capabilities.
Existing Limitations and Future Prospects
Despite the advancements, the Apple Maps web client remains in beta for several users, as denoted by ongoing beta labels on devices like the Google Pixel 9a. Essential features such as Apple ID integration and comprehensive transit support are still absent, which might limit its appeal to power users.
However, the switch from beta.maps.apple.com to maps.apple.com suggests that Apple is gearing up for a wider release and potentially a full launch in the near future.
What Lies Ahead?
Given Apple’s steady expansion of its services to Android, the arrival of a fully functional Apple Maps app on the Google Play Store is a possibility. Until then, the PWA presents a handy and effective alternative for Android users keen to explore Apple’s mapping service.
In the interim, users can anticipate ongoing enhancements in the web client as Apple fine-tunes its features and may add support for Apple ID sign-ins along with more comprehensive navigation tools.
Conclusion
Apple Maps on Android is no longer just a fantasy. Thanks to the new web client and PWA capabilities, Android users can now access Apple’s navigation service with just a few taps. Although limitations do exist, this development signifies a crucial milestone in Apple’s cross-platform journey—and offers a new alternative for Android users in search of options beyond Google Maps.
Whether you’re an Android user intrigued by Apple Maps or someone seeking a sleek, minimalist mapping solution, the new web client is definitely worth trying out. Simply visit maps.apple.com and give it a go.
