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Why are Apple and Amazon both only allowing their maps to be usable on mobile devices? I am sure there are people who want get away from Google/Bing but withou
by tnuc 14y ago
Why are Apple and Amazon both only allowing their maps to be usable on mobile devices?
I am sure there are people who want get away from Google/Bing but without web I can't see them bothering.
- ge0rg 14y agoThe Google Maps API for Android [1] can only be used on Google-certified devices, as it builds on a Google-provided system library. Therefore, none of the apps embedding Google Maps will work out-of-the-box, unless the device manufacturer violates Google's copyright - which Amazon certainly will not do. [1] https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android/ https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/android/
- btipling 14y agoThis isn't related to the question that your parent comment asked. That comment was asking why the Amazon and Apple map products are mobile-only, with no website component. Not sure how a comment about embedding Google maps has anything to do with this.
- spoonmonkeyuk 14y agoFor Apple at least, they have no motive to gain market share on web-based maps, for them mapping is a means to an end rather than a product line in its own right. Maps on mobile are an expected feature right now, and having their own solution meant more flexibility and control, and less dependence on Google.
- jonknee 14y agoSignificantly cheaper licensing most likely.
- peatmoss 14y agoIt may be a way for them to restrict the initial usage while they build up the service.