People are saying Google Maps just left Apple Maps another five years behind with its biggest upgrade in years
Published on Aug 12, 2026 at 3:04 PM (UTC+4)
by Ben Thompson
Last updated on Aug 12, 2026 at 3:04 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Mason Jones
Google Maps is now being branded as ‘five years ahead’ of Apple Maps after its biggest upgrade in years.
In yet another addition to the ongoing navigation app rivalry saga, Google Maps has brought in a huge update that’s apparently blown its competition out of the water.
Users now have the opportunity to use an enhanced 3D map on their travels.
But will this be enough to end competition between the navigation apps for good?
There’s been a navigation apps rivalry going on for a while now
Some rivalries are destined to carry on eternally, whether that’s Coca-Cola versus Pepsi, or Adidas versus Puma.
But the rivalry between the navigation apps is in a league of its own.
Google Maps has been compared to Apple Maps on a whole range of metrics.
One man conducted the ultimate test when he drove over 1,000 miles to see which one served him better.
Not that his test will have done anything to dissuade the online bickering between the two factions.
But now Google Maps have unveiled an update that some are saying puts it leagues ahead of its competition.
This new upgrade may just give Google Maps the ultimate edge
The new upgrade incorporates an enhanced 3D map into the navigation experience.
This includes realistic buildings, terrains, and landmarks.
Gemini-powered AI is also on hand to allow users to plan trips, discover places, and ask travel questions through natural conversation cues.
These new upgrades have been hailed online, as some fans declared it ‘left Apple Maps another five years behind’.
But this is the internet, where arguments and fierce debate run rife.
So obviously, there was going to be some pushback.
“People in these comments, arguing about Apple Maps or Google Maps. It’s all about Waze I don’t care about your 3-D graphics or anything like that,” one man wrote.
“Waze > Apple & Google Maps,” another commented.
Waze is definitely another contender for the crown of best navigation app.
One man ended up coming to a clear conclusion when he pitted them against each other.
And then there are those who are building their own apps, because they’re fed up with what’s on offer.
At any rate, this debate isn’t going anywhere any time soon.
Timeline of Google Maps
February 2005: Google Maps officially launches.
April 2005: Satellite View and Google Earth launched.
May 2007: Street View rolls out in five US cities (San Francisco, New York, Las Vegas, Miami, and Denver).
December 2012: A standalone Google Maps app becomes available on the iOS App Store, reaching 10 million downloads in the first 48 hours.
2015: Offline Maps is introduced, allowing navigation without a data connection.
August 2019: Live View is launched, allowing users to overlay walking directions onto real-world street environments.
2021 – present: Eco-friendly routing has been introduced to prioritize fuel efficiency, while generative AI features are brought in.
Ben joined Supercar Blondie in February 2025 after being published by international organizations including LADbible, The Sun, the New York Post, and the Daily Mail. He covers supercars, rare and collectible vehicles, aviation, luxury assets, and the fascinating people behind them. His reporting has explored everything from seven-figure supercars and historic Ferrari collections to unusual aircraft adventures and extraordinary automotive discoveries from around the world. Ben has also gained first-hand insight into vehicle craftsmanship and customization, including visiting specialist workshops to see bespoke vehicles up close.
