I spent about 5 years at university learning the ins and outs of marketing, psychology and media. One thing that I was taught was that competition is a good thing. It improves the end user experience and forces manufacturers to continuously improve upon themselves and their products.I have pretty much agreed up until recently.

Not so any longer, or?…

In Iphone 5 Apple removed Google maps and replaced it with their own map software. Google maps is currently not available in the ITunes store either.

Among the user complaints regarding Apple’s maps:

Users have complained about the quality of satellite images in the new software

  • Some towns appear to be missing, such as Stratford-upon-Avon and Solihull.
  • Others, like Uckfield in East Sussex, are in the wrong location.
  • Satellite images of various locations, particularly in Scotland, are obscured by cloud.
  • A search for Manchester United Football Club directs users to Sale United Football Club, a community team for ages five and above.
  • Users also reported missing local places, such as schools, or strange locations. Another screenshot showed a furniture museum that was apparently located in a river.

It seems to me that the new competing landscape is being fought by locking out competitors and using lawyer armies on court room battlefields.

The outcome – competition is no longer a good thing. It means inferior products for the end-user rather than development and creativity.

A sad day indeed. Or what do you think, please comment below.

Peter Gillberg
Software Marketing Secrets

More about apple maps from BBC