Google Maps Has a Present for Apple Users

Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) has not yet confirmed publicly whether it will release a new standalone maps app for Apple’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) mobile devices, but the search company has added a key functionality to its iOS web application starting on Thursday. Google Maps on Safari now include Street View functionality, letting a user see actual images from a location or a route on the mobile device right on the mobile web app.

“To make Google Maps even more comprehensive, accurate and useful, today we’re making Street View available on mobile browsers,” Amanda Leicht, a Google Maps product manager, wrote in an official blog post announcing the change. “With access to Street View on your phone, you can use panoramic, street-level imagery to explore and navigate the places around you, even on the go.”

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Apple, which replaced Google Maps as the default navigation application on its mobile devices earlier this month, has received criticism from users and reviewers for the quality of its home-grown application. That even led to Apple chief executive Tim Cook writing a letter of apology for the errors in data and promised to improve the product. Cook also suggested alternatives for the interim, including Google’s web application.

Criticism has also been leveled at Apple for excluding public transit options from its new program, a point that Google subtly included in its blog post on Thursday. “Also, transit, driving, biking and walking directions continue to be available on your mobile browser to help you help guide you to your destination,” the post read.

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