DDG has switched to Apple Maps in their search results.
I assume they were using Bing maps before.
Long term this is a wise strategic move.
1. At some point Google's privacy issues are going to make it hard for Apple to use Google as a default search engine. It's just a matter of time.
2. While Apple may not dump Google overnight, they can do things like offer choice of default search engine to users upon setup of new devices.
3. By using Apple maps, DDG makes itself an easier choice for Apple to include as a potential default.
4. By moving away from Bing maps it strengthens DDG's privacy chops.
5. With poor iPhone sales, Apple is going to be looking at strengthening marketing advantages over Android. Increasing emphasis on privacy is a hook Apple can use.
6. Long Longshot: Apple may go shopping for a search engine of it's own. They certainly have the cash to buy DDG.
Too bad nobody gives a damn about either DDG or A Maps.
DDG is starting to get a little street cred on Reddit.
I actually get quite a bit of traffic from DDG.
Looks like its cracking a little into Bing territory.
I can't say I have ever used Apple maps, are they any good? How do they compare to Google and Bing Maps?
They were hilariously bad when they first rolled out. So bad that even the fanbois admitted they had to go back to G maps.
Apple Maps was initially so bad, in fact, that Cook was forced to apologize and tell Apple users to download Google Maps instead.
Okay, does anyone have any recent experience, in the last 6 months, with Apple maps?
I've seen occasional tech headlines in the reader mentioning the A fitness gear, but that's about it.
So now I'm wondering if Apple paid DDG to use their maps? I think DDG is the first search engine to use Apple maps.
I just listened to a podcast by two veteran Mac/iOS developers. Their take: 1. Apple and DDG had to work out some sort of deal for DDG to get this sort of access to maps. This is a well done integration of Apple Maps on the web and goes further than Apple's own apps and far beyond an off the shelf access. 2. They think Apple would not do this unless they wanted DDG to improve. 3. They noted that both Apple and DDG have a corporate history of and interest in challenging Google.
They didn't speculate further. I found it interesting.
1. You have to start somewhere. If you don't try, you won't be ready to exploit when #2 (below) happens.
2. Google is due to shoot themselves in the foot, or both feet, soon. Probably overdue. Their vulnerability on privacy becomes more pronounced with each passing day.