Apple Maps Web Beta Adds Look Around Feature

Apple has expanded the capabilities of its web-based Apple Maps by introducing the Look Around feature, offering users interactive, street-level imagery akin to Google’s Street View (via 9to5Mac).

The Look Around feature was initially launched in 2019 with iOS 13, providing immersive navigation experiences within the Apple Maps app on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Today’s update allows users to virtually explore various cities through 360-degree panoramic views directly from their web browsers.

To utilize Look Around on the web, users can visit the Apple Maps beta site at beta.maps.apple.com using compatible browsers such as Safari, Chrome, Edge, or Firefox. Upon searching for a location, an icon resembling binoculars appears in the bottom-left corner of the map interface. Clicking this icon activates the Look Around view, enabling users to navigate through street-level images seamlessly.

Currently, Look Around is available in select cities across the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and parts of the European Union. Apple continues to expand coverage, with the most recent update adding new locations around December 11, 2024.

The web version of Apple Maps remains in public beta, offering functionalities such as map exploration, business searches, points of interest, and directions. However, certain features like transit maps, 3D buildings, and personalized options—such as signing in with an Apple ID to access saved places and custom guides—are not yet available.

Apple has indicated plans to introduce additional features, platform support, and language options in future updates.

This development positions Apple Maps as a more formidable competitor to established web-based mapping services like Google Maps. By extending Look Around to the web, Apple enhances user accessibility and provides a consistent experience across different devices and operating systems.