II.studio/Shutterstock.com Apple Maps is officially only available on Apple devices such as iPhones and Macs. But, thanks to DuckDuckGo , you can browse or get directions in Apple Maps from any platform with a browser, including Windows and Android.
DuckDuckGo uses Apple Maps
In 2018, Apple announced the MapKit JS, ae API that allows application developers to integrate Apple Maps into websites. DuckDuckGo took this framework and used it to build its own mapping tool.
To access it, simply search for a place in DuckDuckGo, then click on the Maps filter in, as you would with any other search engine major. You can also try searching for a place name and including "map" in your query.
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You can get directions this way by searching for a location, then clicking the "Directions " button and choosing between walking and driving. You can also view local businesses on a map, but for that works, you will need to share your precise location using the map pin icon in the upper right corner of the map.
Unfortunately, Apple Maps doesn 't is not as feature rich as similar services from Google and Microsoft. This means that it lacks information.ns such as real-time traffic and bicycle routes or public transport. On the plus side, business listings include Tripadvisor ratings, contact details and hours of operation.
This does not take full advantage of the Apple Maps experience
Unfortunately, the mapping solution by DuckDuckGo doesn't quite compare to using a dedicated Apple Maps app on a compatible device. There are no Apple-centric features like saving your favorite places to your iCloud account or syncing routes with a mobile device.
While you can switch between normal map view and satellite imagery, Apple Maps' impressive 3D photogrammetry is not present. The Street View "Look Around " feature is also missing, available in some areas when using a version of dedicated application of Apple Maps.
If you are a DuckDuckGo user and are willing to trade DuckDuckGo privacy for Google or Bing's top mapping experience, you can use dedicated fringes to search Google Maps (! Maps) or Bing Maps (! Bingmaps) directly. You can also query OpenStreetMap using the! Openstreetmap bang.
Why DuckDuckGo chose Apple Maps
DuckDuckGo previously used a combination of OpenStreetMap, Bing Maps and 'HERE Maps, but did not have a dedicated solution. Search engine emphasizes privacy before tout, so using a service like Google Maps (which collects data about whoever uses it) was not an option.
Lack of data collection is what made Apple Maps such an attractive lead and DuckDuckGo authorized at announce the partnership in early 2019. The search engine reassured its users that:
The search engine has also informed its users that location information is deleted immediately after use.
Try DuckDuckGo Today
DuckDuckGo is a real alternative to Google that respects your privacy. The search engine does not track or collect data about its users, but generates income from affiliate links and results-based.
Learn more about how DuckDuckGo can protect your privacy .
