#Google Maps vs Apple Maps

Apple is giving up more control over the iPhone experience in the European Union, and the latest win goes to Google Maps. Starting with iOS 18.4, EU-based iPhone users can now set Google Maps as their default navigation app—something users outside the region still can’t do. This update, which rolled out quietly in the latest version of Google Maps for iOS, lets EU iPhone owners bypass Apple Maps entirely. When this option is enabled, any address tapped on the web or in other apps will open directly in Google Maps instead of Apple’s own navigation tool. If you live outside the EU—even if you're running iOS 18.4—you won’t be able to set Google Maps or any other third-party app as your default for navigation just yet. To take advantage of the new option, users will need to ensure they’ve installed the latest version of Google Maps, which remains free on the App Store. Once updated, and after iOS 18.4 is officially released, eligible users can head to the Default Apps settings to switch from Apple Maps to Google Maps permanently. This marks a major change for navigation on iPhones in the EU, and many users who have long preferred Google Maps' features—including more detailed traffic data, Street View, and better multi-modal transit navigation—are likely to welcome the move. Read more in our articles including "You Can Now Set Google Maps as Your Default Navigation App – But Only in the EU" and "Apple Built Its New AI Foundation Models With Google".