Looks like Google is trying to get a jump on Apple by introducing 3d maps a week before Apple does. Apple planned on introducing the maps during WWDC, its developer’s conference on June 11.
We’ve already seen a few leaks that suggest Apple will be announcing its own 3D mapping service on June 11 at WWDC, its developer’s conference. Now it looks like Google is trying to beat Apple to the punch by unveiling its own 3D maps a week earlier.
At an event entitled “The Next Dimension of Google Maps†next Wednesday, Brian McClendon, vice president of Google Maps and Google Earth is slated to give event goers an inside look at what’s in the works for Google’s mapping service and “provide a sneak peek at upcoming features that will help people get where they want to go – both physically and virtually.â€
Apple has used Google Maps in the iPhone since its launch in 2007, the company is rumored to be removing Google’s mapping service completely from its phone with the release of iOS 6 and replacing it with its own Google Maps alternative. Reports earlier this year indicated that the company will be showing off its own 3D mapping solution at its Worldwide Developers Conference June 11.
In recent months Apple has also acquired mapping experts C3 Technologies, Placebase, and Poly9 adding fuel to those rumors. Apple also recently removed Google Maps from the iPad version of iPhoto.
Google’s timing on its announcement suggests that it is being done to directly compete with Apple, and perhaps show users what –potentially better – options might exist with Google Maps and Android versus what Apple will be offering with the iPhone and iOS 6.
What do you think Apple and Google have in store? More importantly, are you interested in 3D mapping in the first place? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
[mashable]
