Consumer Reports: Apple Maps vs. Google Maps Showdown

Consumer Reports has posted a review of Apple Maps vs. Google Maps focused on how well each app helps you get from Point A to Point B.

Having put it through the paces we subject each portable navigator to in our test program, our original criticisms remain. But having more thoroughly tested Apple Maps alongside a Samsung Galaxy S3 running Android 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich) with Google Maps, we have a more favorable opinion--certainly more favorable than comments and articles that we've been reading online.

Our evaluations were performed in the greater New York City area using two phones per platform, each on a different carrier. We found that both Apple Maps and Google Maps route effectively, providing clear guidance and great points-of-interest integration. Overall, Apple impressed our staff with the graphic presentation for the interface, results, signage, and points of interest info. However, there is less customization throughout than Google--a mixed blessing when driving, where distractions can be dangerous. Google comes across as more business like and less fun.

Both apps found most locations they searched for; however, Apple Maps had a harder time finding locations by keyword rather than their exact name. Also, the test was performed in a populous city which would likely have more accurate mapping data.

You can read their full review of the two navigation solutions at the link below...

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