Steve Jobs reportedly grew to despise Google for withholding turn-by-turn directions from Google Maps on iOS devices.
A recent piece by Bloomberg Businessweek has shed new light on Apple’s maps fiasco, citing multiple current and former employees as sources. The report raises the question of whether deceased CEO Steve Jobs would have made the same decisions that led to the debacle.
The Roots of Discontent: Google and Apple’s Relationship
According to the report, Steve Jobs had come to loathe Google for copying iOS in developing Android, a revelation that was previously revealed in Walter Isaacson’s biography. However, this wasn’t the only reason for Jobs’ discontent with Google. Sources close to the matter claim that Jobs also felt that Google was withholding turn-by-turn voice-guided navigation from Google Maps on Apple’s mobile platform.
The Decision to Create Apple Maps
As a result of Jobs’ dissatisfaction with Google, he became the driving force behind Apple’s decision to create its own maps application. Scott Forstall was put in charge of the entire project, and it seems that Jobs had a clear vision for what he wanted Apple Maps to achieve.
The Plan to Replace Google Search on iPhone
But that wasn’t all. The report also reveals that Jobs discussed the idea of replacing Google search on the iPhone and mobile Safari with Apple’s own search engine. However, this plan was ultimately dropped due to concerns that it would be too much for customers to handle.
The Timeline: A Planned Move or a Hasty Decision?
While some have suggested that Apple could have waited longer since there was still time on the contract, it seems that the company didn’t want to be left in a position where it seemed like the move to Maps was a strategic failing forced upon it from outside forces. Instead, Apple wanted to regain control over its own platform and future.
The Question of What-If
The question of whether or not Steve Jobs would have done something is arguably always a pretty fruitless one. However, in this case, I think the Bloomberg piece should at least put an end to the debate. Not only would he have done it, but it’s likely that he did, for better or for worse.
A Clue from the Past
In 2012, when Apple released iOS 6 with its own Maps application, many users were left frustrated and disappointed by the app’s inadequacies. However, a closer look at the situation reveals that Apple was already planning to replace Google Maps with its own solution.
The Clashes Between Apple and Google
According to sources, Apple and Google clashed over the features in Maps on iOS and access to the platform. While some have suggested that Apple could have waited longer since there was still time on the contract, it’s clear that the company didn’t want to be left in a position where it seemed like the move to Maps was a strategic failing forced upon it from outside forces.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, while we can never know for certain what Steve Jobs would have done in this situation, it seems highly likely that he would have made similar decisions. The Bloomberg piece has shed new light on Apple’s maps fiasco and the complex relationship between Apple and Google.
What Does This Mean for Apple?
The decision to create its own Maps application may seem like a costly mistake now, but it was likely driven by a desire to regain control over Apple’s platform and future. The company’s determination to succeed, even in the face of adversity, is a testament to its commitment to innovation.
Will This Happen Again?
While we can’t predict the future with certainty, it’s clear that Apple will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with technology. Whether this means creating new and innovative products or services remains to be seen.
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Categories: Apple, Google Maps, iOS 6, iPhone, Maps, Media & Entertainment
Tags: Apple, Google Maps, iOS 6, iPhone, Maps, Media & Entertainment
