iOS 6 Apple Maps Reviews Mixed When Compared to Google Maps; Google Working on New Maps App for iOS?

The iOS 6 features two notable differences for the first time in Apple's mobile operating system (OS) history: the maps application.

For previous iOS, Google Maps has been featured but Apple decided to do away with Google and create their own map app.

MacWorld's Dan Moren reviewed the new OS and noted that "unquestionably" the Apple Maps is the marquee feature of the iOS 6.

"The first thing that catches the eye when you launch the new and revamped app is that the map itself is front-and-center: On the iPhone, Apple has reduced the amount of chrome around the edges of the interface. The result is a minimalist interface that leaves much more room for the map itself."

Carly Page of The Inquirer noted her favorite feature of Maps is directions.

"When you've planned your route using the app, Maps displays directions in large blue boxes at the top of the screen, telling you exactly how far to go, where to turn off and so on," said Page. "You can also review the directions simply by swiping right-to-left, a really nice feature compared to Google Maps."

She does add that the new map app "definitely needs work" when it comes to its functions if it wants to rival Google Maps.

IT Pro Portal's Jeffrey L. Wilson said Maps "at first glance" looked similar to Google Maps but there are small differences.

"Restaurants, coffee shops and other places of interest are highlighted with more eye-catching icons which, when tapped, open reviews and information supplied by Yelp. Unfortunately, Apple's new system seems a little weaker than Google's, and more prone to data inaccuracies."

MacStories' Federico Viticci was critical of the new Maps.

"In my opinion, iOS 6 has, right now, worse Maps and App Store search; especially for Maps, if you rely on features like Street View and public transit directions, I can't recommend the update until an official Google Maps app comes out. For everything else, iOS 6 improves on almost every aspect of the operating system, and sets the stage for a stronger platform in the future."

TechCrunch refers Maps as the "much known weakness" for the iOS 6.

"Walking and driving directions are actually still pretty solid in Apple's Maps offering, and turn-by-turn navigation works well, albeit at a heavy cost to battery," said Etherington.

He adds that the lack of street view will be a struggle for people who are comfortable with Google Maps.

Google is rumored to be working on a Google Maps app for the iOS 6, just like they worked for the new YouTube app. Latinos Post will follow up on the status of the new Google Maps app.

Courtesy of Complex.com,  there might be a method to have Google Maps on the iOS 6.

According to Complex's Reggie Ugwu, using the Safarai browser, visit maps.google.com and click on the export button in order to save the app to the device's homescreen. When the installation is done, the Google Maps app icon should appear on the homescreen. Complex does note that using Google Maps under this option won't guarantee the same result as if using iOS 5.

The iOS 6 is free to install and compatible for the iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPad 2, fourth and fifth generation iPod Touch.