User Experience: Google Maps versus Apple Maps — Part 2
Continuing the discussion in Part 1, we are comparing the user experience of two similar products, Google Maps and Apple Maps. In part 2, we are going to focus on the design of the map itself. Let’s dive in!
Maps
In terms of maps, one of the main differences lies in the choices of icons. When users press on a place, on Apple Maps the place will be highlighted with an icon reflecting what the place is about. We can see in the images above that Covent Garden is represented by two shopping bags. On the contrary, Google uses its iconic red pin for all places regardless.
In addition, Google and Apple put emphasis on different subjects on the map. Google highlights the busy areas whereas Apple chooses to show the roadworks and roads closed.
Also, in driving mode, Apple labels routes with more information. Drivers are able to see more than just the travel time at a glance. Scrolling down, they can as well toggle to avoid tolls or motorways. In this sense, it seems like Apple Maps is more driver-friendly than Google Maps.
Nonetheless, if users are considering a ride, Google Maps might be a better place than Apple Maps. Google shows the taxis around users on the map with estimated waiting times and prices. Compared with Apple Maps where it suggests users open their Uber app, there is more information displayed. Our UX consultant Lisa points out that Google allows users to make decisions quickly as they are able to compare the waiting time and price, even with other transport modes, without being redirected.
Conclusion
There is no denying that both Google Maps and Apple Maps have areas they’ve done well and areas they could improve. Yet after close analysis, we would say the designs from Apple are more oriented to drivers and pedestrians, and those from Google are more public transport oriented and more friendly to bikers as well as people who use cabs. Another difference is that Google Maps makes more recommendations/decisions when Apple Maps often leaves them up to users. These distinctions separate them apart. Therefore between these two apps, users do not necessarily choose a ‘better’ one. It is more important to look at the needs and partner with the one that fulfils them.
Apart from Google Maps and Apple Maps, other popular choices include Citymapper and Komoot. Citymapper is targeted at city dwellers who rely on public transport, with around 119 cities covered at this moment. The design of Citymapper centres around its target users, laying out different modes of public transport on the homepage, which is different from Google and Apple. Also to passengers’ benefits, Citymapper displays fare, disruption/delay alerts as well as important announcements (for example, Elizabeth Line opening). If the Internet is working properly, it even sends notifications to users when they are supposed to get off.
As for Komoot, it is a navigation app made for hikers and cyclists. It shows the fitness level required, distance, elevation profile and surfaces so that users have an understanding of the trip before beginning the journey. Komoot’s community feature allows users to record and share their trips and find inspiration from others. It aims to be a trip planner, more than guiding people from one location to another.
We hope you enjoy reading this article. Please feel free to share with us which navigation app is your favourite, alongside your comments about its user experience!
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