Google Effectively No-Comments Regarding New Google Maps App for iOS

Danny Sullivan:

I asked Google today if we’d be getting a Google Maps app, and if so, when and also if it would include turn-by-turn navigation. Here’s what I was sent back:

We believe Google Maps are the most comprehensive, accurate and easy-to-use maps in the world. Our goal is to make Google Maps available to everyone who wants to use it, regardless of device, browser, or operating system.

Let’s parse the statement. It sounds like Google wants its own app for iOS 6 — hence the “regardless of device” part. But it’s not confirming that this will happen soon or why it’s not already happened.

Is Apple somehow blocking it? If so, Google’s not saying. Is Google holding back for some strange reason? Again, we just don’t know.

I highly doubt Apple would “block” it, where by “block” I mean “reject a submitted Google Maps app that complies with the App Store guidelines”. But how limited would a maps app be given those guidelines? The app couldn’t do turn-by-turn while in the background, for one thing. Correction: I was wrong. Turn-by-turn directions in the background are supported for App Store.

Anyway, I wouldn’t read too much into this statement. It’s just good PR not to say anything until it’s ready.

★ Wednesday, 19 September 2012