Idk…the article starts with talking about the history of Google Maps, then talks about Apple’s Maps, and then complains pretty much at what looks like desktop features based off the snapshot in the article. Maybe the setup is different on iOS vs Android?
When I use Google Maps in my car, it doesn’t pop up all these different places…it asks me to input a destination, and then it gives directions. Granted, I don’t use it to include walking or other forms of transportation. The CarPlay interface has options to find gas stations, hotels, restaurants, etc., yet it doesn’t clutter the display with those when I’m in transit.
I’m in agreement that the desktop version has a lot of clutter, no doubt. As far as my experience, the mobile app doesn’t have a lot of issues where I use it the most.
#6.) If you’re using a browser that prevents fingerprinting (Firefox), road badges display as garbage in Google Maps.
I agree with the article, but i hate the way the author just admits defeat at the end. “I hate everything about it! But i won’t realistically leave. And actually you can keep doing it all, just let me hide hotels pretty please”. Ugh.
I can’t claim I’ve managed anything more, beyond periodically re-testing the alternatives, but i just hate to see it written., Feels like it undermines the whole argument when they make clear that Google will see no consequence.
The biggest hurdle for me, is that many businesses and other points of interest are missing in the alternatives. And if not missing, then useful data like opening hours, reviews, etc aren’t there.
But i hate every moment i spend in Google Maps due to the advertising and bad UX, and I will jump ship as soon as something comes even close (on Android).
Organic Maps FTW!
The version on my S5 is a quarter the size of the version on my XCover. Both give the same directions. The app ballooned to 4x the size for ads and features I have literally never used on the phone like street view and “explore”.
The version on my near decade old phone is also snappier and uses less data because it isn’t background loading a bunch of ads for me to tune out.