Google may be pushing Street View to Safari

Computerworld - iPhone users frustrated with the inaccuracies in Apple's Maps app might get another choice for finding where they want to go from rival Google.

In the next two weeks, Google's Street View is expected to be available on the iPhone's main browser, Safari, according to a report from the New York Times.

Google did respond to a request for comment at deadline.

The Internet has been abuzz ever since Apple released its iOS6 update without Google Maps as part of its app repertoire. Apple's own iOS6 Maps app has been met with a wave of criticism, with complaints ranging from missing streets and addresses to inaccurate maps.

Giving iPhone users the option to use Street View from a mobile Safari app could go a long way to taking away some of that sting, according to Zeus Kerravala, an analyst with ZK Research..

"It's a great move for Google and an OK move for Apple," he added. "Google wants to make all Google stuff ubiquitous. For Safari, it adds value to that browser. Apple may not love it but it's not bad for them."

Kerravala also noted that offering Google's Street View through Safari could take some of the heat off Apple, as the company figures out its own maps strategy.

He also said it would be a good move for mobile Safari users. "It makes Street View more available," he said.

Sharon Gaudin covers the Internet and Web 2.0, emerging technologies, and desktop and laptop chips for Computerworld. Follow Sharon on Twitter at @sgaudin, on Google+ or subscribe to Sharon's RSS feed . Her email address is sgaudin@computerworld.com.

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