Road Test and Review: Google Maps in Apple CarPlay

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Even though I don’t have the app connected to a Google account, the app of course recognized some searches I had done on my phone using the older version of the Google app.

Inputting a new destination was simple, albeit faster on the phone, something to avoid when driving. Pressing the microphone icon in Google Maps allows the driver to speak the destination, although that presented mixed results.

My test destination address, 350 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, came up repeatedly as “3 E 55 St.” Speaking “Empire State Building,” however, did bring the desired search result, as did saying each digit in the house number individually, i.e. “three, five, zero Fifth Avenue

Once underway, I felt like the Google Maps app had a little difficulty keeping up with minor changes along the way, such as when I deliberately didn’t turn right for a few streets, a test I repeated with Apple Maps, which didn’t falter.

Although this is a matter of taste and getting used to, I found the voice providing the directions a bit harsh both in German compared to the Apple voice I was used to, although the English-speaking voice was fine.

All in all, I was very satisfied with Google Maps experience in Apple CarPlay although I will likely continue to use Apple Maps on a regular basis, except where I know that the mapping data is better on Google. After all, that’s what having a choice in map apps is all about.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)

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