Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL) has been maintaining the lead as far as mapping applications are concerned and the fact that Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL)’s Apple Maps has been substandard. Recent improvements might change the outlook for Apple Maps.

For the past few years since its launch, Apple Maps has been considered a disaster because it had a lot of bugs. It was inaccurate and poorly developed, something rare for the Apple brand. It was so bad that Apple CEO Tim Cook once apologized that his company made such a poor product. Luckily, there is a Google Maps version for iOS which has been downloaded by millions of people using iOS.

Fortunately, Apple is aware of the flaws that have prevented Apple Maps from being a great product and has been working on making tweaks that will elevate it to greater heights. Apple has particularly focused on making Apple Maps more pleasant, convenient and robust. The aim is to make the app more appealing to Apple iOS users as well as maintaining their tradition of offering the best in class that Apple can offer.

The iPhone maker has also expanded the app to include the Amtrak network in the US. The coverage also extends to Vancouver and Montreal. The recent upgrade for Apple Maps also aligns with the company’s release of iOS 10. The new and improved iOS is expected to encourage iOS users to steer more towards the Apple Maps app instead of Google Maps. Apple believes that the refresh will make Apple Maps more competitive and more acceptable as opposed to the poorly developed predecessor. The question is, will Apple get a second chance here?

Apple’s competitive nature has been one of the firm’s most important factors towards offering quality products. Hopefully, the company will keep working on the app to make it more user-friendly and accurate. Google has also maintained a strong lead with its refined and easy to use Google Maps.

Google stock closed the latest trading session at $800.71, down by $2.37 or 3% compared to the value of the stock during the previous close.