The real advantage of Overture’s approach lies in the fact that it offers the underlying map data, empowering companies to build their own software on top of it. This grants them more flexibility compared to relying on Google’s or Apple’s maps as a service.
The availability of Overture’s data is especially significant as digital maps play a critical role in mobile apps, as well as emerging technologies like augmented reality and self-driving cars. It enables companies to integrate their proprietary information, resulting in highly customized offerings.
Even though Apple Maps had a bumpy start in 2012, it has made significant improvements to its user experience, successfully winning over some users from Google Maps.
With deep integration into iOS and enhanced user experience, Apple Maps has managed to achieve higher usage rates, despite most U.S. iPhone users having Google Maps installed.
Google anti-trust issues
Google’s terms of service have been criticized for forcing developers to use its maps and search products together, creating limitations for rival mapping services.
