Apple just enhanced its web version of Apple Maps by adding a beta version of Look Around, a street-level view similar to Google Street View in Google Maps. The new functionality lets users explore high-resolution, ground-level views of cities and points of interest directly through their web browser. The Apple Maps app already has Look Around.
Look Around, which has been available on iOS devices since iOS 13, is now accessible to users in Apple Maps via web browers, regardless of their device or operating system. The feature can be activated by clicking the binoculars icon in the bottom left corner of the map window, allowing users to click and drag to view different perspectives of supported locations.
The feature is currently available in numerous major cities across multiple countries as Apple expands it, including the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, Singapore and London. Some reports suggest Apple will further expand Look Around to include more rural areas and new countries such as Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, China, Belarus, Turkey, Bulgaria, Mexico and Slovakia.
The web version of Apple Maps, which remains in beta, is compatible with major browsers including Safari, Chrome, Edge and Firefox. It works on both Mac and Windows PCs. Beyond Look Around, the service offers various features including driving and walking directions, place ratings and hours, curated Guides and food-ordering capabilities from place cards.
While the web version continues to evolve, some features remain exclusive to the mobile app. They include personalization options like searching addresses from contacts or saving locations to a personal library. Future updates may include additional features such as transit maps, 3D views, expanded language support and Apple ID integration for saved locations.
Users interested in trying the new Look Around feature can access Apple Maps' web version at beta.maps.apple.com, where it serves as an alternative to Google Maps for both Apple and non-Apple users.