Crying about it being in "beta" doesn't mean anything. Do we really think Apple can make a far better map solution in basically three months?
http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-ios-6-maps-screwup-2012-6
www.gizmodo.com/5918176/google-maps-vs-apple-maps-a-side-by-side-comparison
The Maps are bad.
Really bad.
Beta isn't used to LABEL OCEANS.
Is the app randomly crashing? Yes, lets fix that.
But a map that shows 1/2 of a massive body of water like a local bay? Just unacceptable.
Who tested this thing?
Google has had 10 years to get this right and Apple knows that they should have something CLOSE to that before they really try to supplement their own option. Having turn-by-turn means nothing if the maps lack readability or clarity.
This makes me also think...has Apple really ever given the sort of care and attention to something that maps require?
Google has shown the work what it takes to make premier mapping services and has gone through great lengths to preserve that sort of leverage. I also think having a desktop browser version helps since it offers a vast array of customizations and configurations.
Consider even the search logic used. Google's resources and ability to interpret even vague queries really makes you appreciate their map product even more.
Maps are a CORE part of smart phone experiences. Apple better not give us more FlyOver demos and thinks that this cuts it.
I really think they're making a graven error here.
I'm an iPhone user but I would greatly consider paying for a Google turn-by-turn option if they made one.