Don't look for the iPhone 5 to feature Google Maps anytime soon.
Reuters reported that Google's Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt said today that Google has made no plans to provide its Maps application for Apple's iPhone 5.
Apple launched its own maps application when it updated its software platform to iOS 6.
iPhone 5 users have been complaining about Apple's mapping service, based on Dutch navigation equipment and digital map maker TomTom NV's data, which some say contains obvious geographical errors and just doesn't measure up to Google Maps, according to Reuters.
"We think it would have been better if they had kept ours. But what do I know?" Schmidt said. "What were we going to do, force them not to change their mind? It's their call."
Schmidt said Apple and Google have been in communications, but it's ultimately Apple's decision whether they will accept Google Maps or not.
Google and Apple were partners in 2007 when the original iPhone launched, but Reuters said ties between the two have been strained by the rise of Google's Android mobile operating system, now the world's leading platform for smartphones.
"I'm not doing any predictions," Schmidt said. "We want them to be our partner. We welcome that. I'm not going to speculate at all what they're going to do. They can answer that question as they see fit."
Google provides Android free of charge and allows developers to add applications on an open basis in hopes of growing its pool of users. That way, they can make more money by providing search functions and selling advertising.
Schmidt took a small swipe at Apple by showing off a new function of Google Maps on the new Nexus tablet.
The feature allows users to shift their view of an area by moving the device in the air without touching the screen, similar to the effect of looking around.
"Take that Apple," he said, adding quickly, "That was a joke by the way."
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