Make no mistake: Google knows a lot about you. The tech giant collects data ranging from your search history to everything you ask your voice assistant. In fact, it will only refrain from doing so after a series of complicated steps.
Google Maps is no exception. When using the app, precautions such as deleting your location history or accessing in incognito mode can only go so far. Plus, there’s no guarantee that Google won’t save your data on its servers.
It may be easy and convenient to rely on Google’s services and products all the time. However, if you’re interested in keeping your options open to other privacy-oriented services, we’ve curated a list of privacy-oriented and open-source alternatives to Google Maps.
Apple Maps
| Price | Free |
| Level of privacy offered | Collects data only if a user submits information through Ratings & Photos or reports an issue |
| Open source | No |
| Offline maps | No |
| Supported devices | Apple devices only |
Download Apple Maps:
Developed by Apple, Apple Maps is the default navigational system for the iPhone, MacBook, and Apple Watch. The app provides directions and estimated times of arrival for public transportation, driving, and walking. The app also provides real-time traffic updates.
Why Apple Maps might be better than Google Maps
In recent years, privacy has been at the forefront of Apple’s innovations. This extends to Maps as well. All data collected by Maps is encrypted and stored in secure servers. Additionally, Apple has implemented a number of privacy controls that allow users to control the data that is collected and share through Maps. For example, users can choose to turn off location tracking or opt out of sharing their location data with third parties.
Overall, Apple Maps is generally considered to be a reliable and secure mapping service.
Bing Maps
| Price | Free and paid versions available |
| Level of privacy offered | User data is encrypted |
| Open source | Yes |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Apple, Android, and Microsoft devices |
Download Bing Maps:
Bing Maps is a web mapping service by Microsoft. The service also has an API that allows developers to integrate Bing Maps into their applications. Bing Maps provides a range of features like street maps, aerial and bird’s eye views, and 3D maps. It also provides real-time traffic and local search functionality.
Why Bing Maps might be better than Google Maps
Microsoft uses encryption tools to protect user data in transit and at rest. The company also implements strict access controls to limit data to authorized users. Microsoft is also generally transparent about the data it collects, and users can view and control their data through the Microsoft Privacy Dashboard.
One thing to note is that Bing Maps is used as part of other Microsoft services, such as Office, Outlook, Dynamics 365, and more, so those services’ privacy policies might affect how data on Bing Maps might be used.
Citymapper
| Price | Free, paid, and enterprise versions available |
| Level of privacy offered | Citymapper doesn’t sell or share user data to third-party advertisers |
| Open source | Yes |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Apple and Android devices |
Download Citymapper:
Citymapper is a public transport and navigation app available for mobile devices. It offers a variety of features including real-time transport information, route planning, and the ability to purchase tickets.
Why Citymapper might be better than Google Maps
Citymapper has a detailed privacy policy on its site stating that they don’t share or sell user data to third-party advertisers.
Here WeGo
| Price | Free |
| Level of privacy offered | Here WeGo does not share data with third parties |
| Open source | No |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Apple and Android devices |
Download Here WeGo:
Here WeGo is a web mapping and location-based service developed by Here Technologies and initially developed by Nokia. The app provides a range of features, including turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic updates, public transportation information, and the ability to search for points of interest.
Why Here WeGo might be better than Google Maps
Here WeGo is available on various platforms, including the web, iOS, and Android. Like Citymapper, Here WeGo also states that it doesn’t sell or share user data with third parties. However, like all the other apps above, Here WeGo uses location data, which can include sensitive information and reveal daily habits and personal routines.
Maps.me
| Price | Free, in-app purchases available |
| Level of privacy offered | Maps.me might share data with advertisers |
| Open source | Yes |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Apple and Android devices |
Download Maps.me
Maps.me is a free, open-source app that automatically stores all the map information you need for offline use.
Why Maps.me might be better than Google Maps
The app includes categories of ‘points of interest,’ comparable to Google Maps, which includes food, shops, entertainment, and other attractions. The similarity with Google Maps doesn’t end there; you will also see “Guides”, or reviews that are written by people who have visited the establishment before.
However, one disappointing drawback with Maps.me, is that it uses your location data to serve you tailored ads on both Apple and Android versions of its app, as outlined in its privacy policy. It is a popular alternative for its features and free software, but that comes at the cost of location-based ads. For the sake of deGoogling yourself, Maps.me might be sufficient, but not if you don’t want your information used to tailor ads to you.
MapQuest
| Price | Free |
| Level of privacy offered | Might share information with third-parties |
| Open source | Yes |
| Offline maps | No |
| Supported devices | Apple devices, Android devices, and desktop. |
Download MapQuest:
MapQuest is a mapping and navigation app and site that provides detailed maps for driving, walking, real-time traffic, and information about local businesses. The service is available only in the U.S.
Why MapQuest might be better than Google Maps
According to its privacy policy, MapQuest may collect personal information from and about its users, such as names, addresses, and contact details. Their privacy policy also states that they might share aggregated information with their subsidiaries and affiliates.
Ultimately, it might be wise to read MapQuest’s privacy policy before deciding if they’re worth the download.
Navmii
| Price | Free, in-app purchases available |
| Level of privacy offered | Might share information with third-parties |
| Open source | Yes |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Apple and Android devices |
Download Navmii:
Navmii is a free community-based navigation system made especially for drivers. The service offers voice-guided navigation and live traffic information. The app can also serve as a dashcam. Navmii also has specific features for truck drivers that gives information when particular routes are not suitable for their vehicle.
Why Navmii might be better than Google Maps
Navmii collects information about their users based on their privacy policy to provide better advertising experiences and communicate with them. Like MapQuest, it might be worth looking at Navmii’s privacy policy to decide if the service is worth signing up for.
OpenStreetMap
| Price | Free |
| Level of privacy offered | May share user data with third parties |
| Open source | Yes |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Desktop |
OpenStreetMap is an open-source and community-driven navigational and mapping system available solely on desktops.
The service is maintained by a community of volunteers, with contributors from different chapters worldwide collecting and updating information for better mapping. While OpenStreetMap is helpful, it’s not always accurate and might not have the names of every street in a city.
Why OpenStreetMap might be better than Google Maps
OpenStreetMap’s privacy policy details all the types of information and data that the platform collects about users and how users can control their data usage.
OsmAnd
| Price | Free and paid versions available |
| Level of privacy offered | OsmAnd doesn’t share collected data with third parties. |
| Open source | Yes |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Apple and Android devices |
Download OsmAnd:
OsmAnd is a mobile-only navigation tool that provides traffic information, public transport details, and cycling routes for commuters and travelers alike. Users can view information like hours of operation for shops and restaurants. It’s also possible to create and store your routes on its app.
Why OsmAnd might be better than Google Maps
Both iOS and Android apps are free to use and accessible offline. However, you will have to cough up cash if you’re interested in the full library of features, which includes live map updates and unlimited map downloads.
Rand McNally
| Price | 199.99 USD for a Vehicle Link Electronic Logging Device |
| Level of privacy offered | Rand McNally states it does not share information with third parties unless it’s consented to |
| Open source | No |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Apple and Android devices as well as Rand McNally devices |
Rand McNally is a company that creates maps, atlases, and other cartographic products. The company is best known for its GPS devices, which are popular among truckers and travelers. It also produces different types of physical maps and travel guides.
Why Rand McNally might be better than Google Maps
Rand McNally generally collects and uses personal information following its privacy policy. It may collect information such as location, device type, and IP address, which it uses to provide location-based services and improve and personalize its products. The company does not share personal information with third parties for its marketing purposes without user consent. Still, data may be shared with third parties who perform services on behalf of the company.
Sygic GPS Navigation
| Price | Free |
| Level of privacy offered | May share your data with third parties |
| Open source | Yes |
| Offline maps | Yes |
| Supported devices | Apple and Android devices |
Download Sygic GPS Navigation:
Sygic GPS Navigation is a GPS navigation app for smartphones and tablets. It provides turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic and speed camera alerts, and a wide range of detailed maps. The app also includes 3D buildings, a junction view, and a heads-up display mode that projects navigation information onto the car’s windshield.
Why Sygic GPS Navigation might be better than Google Maps
The Sygic GPS Navigation app may collect information about your device, location, usage, and preferences to provide and improve the service, personalization, and marketing purposes. The company’s privacy policy states that personal information may be shared with third-party service providers to provide the service or to improve it. However, Sygic says it will not share or sell personal information to third parties for its marketing purposes without user consent.
Waze
| Price | Free |
| Level of privacy offered | Waze doesn’t share data with third parties unless consented to |
| Open source | No |
| Offline maps | No |
| Supported devices | Apple and Android devices |
Download Waze:
Waze is a GPS navigation software app owned by Google that works on smartphones and tablets with GPS support. It provides turn-by-turn navigation information, user-submitted travel times, and route details while downloading location-dependent information over a mobile telephone network. Waze also allows users to report events such as accidents, speed cameras, and police presence, which other users in the area can see in near real-time.
Why Waze might be better than Google Maps
As for the safety of user data, Waze collects information from users, such as their location, speed, and chosen route, which is then shared with other users in the area. Waze states in its privacy policy that it does not share personal information with third parties without user consent and uses anonymized data to improve its service. Google, as the parent company, may also collect location data. Users are encouraged to review Waze’s Privacy Policy and Google’s Privacy Policy if they have concerns.
Google Maps API Alternatives
Many other services offer their APIs for use. If you’re considering Google Maps API alternatives, here are some we recommend:
- ArcGIS REST API
The ArcGIS REST API lets you access maps features, imagery, and analysis services on ArcGIS online.
- Salesforce Maps
Salesforce’s API provides location intelligence, optimization, and visualization services for businesses. The Salesforce API might be more suitable for businesses.
- QGIS
QGIS API runs on several major operating software, making it easy to use and adapt. With QGIS, you can browse and create map data on your computer and create content in various database formats.
- MapInfo Pro
MapInfo Pro is a premium desktop mapping tool for creating and analyzing geographic data. A subscription starts at 1,315 USD, and a 30-day free trial is available.
- Mapbox
Mapbox’s free API lets users access functions for maps, markers, and geographic and geometric utilities. There are also tutorials on the Mapbox site that developers may find helpful.
- Azure Maps
Azure Maps is a service offered by Microsoft. The premium service includes geospatial services, location insights, and imagery businesses could find useful when developing web and mobile applications.
- Loqate – Address Capture & Verification
Loqate provides accurate location data and address verification services. Beyond mapping services, Loqate provides email, phone, and bank verification tools.
- BatchGeo
BatchGeo creates maps with location data from spreadsheets, tables, or web pages.
About Google Earth
Google Earth is a program that renders a 3D representation of Earth based on satellite imagery. The program maps the Earth by superimposing satellite images and aerial photography onto a 3D globe, allowing users to see cities and landscapes from various angles. Google Earth also includes a Street View feature, allowing users to navigate through street-level imagery.
Google Earth is available as a desktop application and as a mobile app for Android and iOS. The desktop version offers more features, such as the ability to measure distances and areas and create custom maps. The mobile app version is more focused on exploring and navigation.
Google Earth alternatives
- Esri ArcGIS
ArcGIS Desktop is a powerful application that allows users to create, edit, and analyze geographic data. It includes tools for data visualization, spatial analysis, and map creation.
- QGIS
QGIS is a free, open-source Geographic Information System (GIS) software. It provides a user-friendly way to view, edit, and analyze geographical data.
- Maptitude
Maptitude is a commercial GIS software developed by Caliper Corporation. It is primarily used to create and edit maps, analyze spatial data, and create custom GIS solutions.
- AutoCAD Map 3D
AutoCAD Map 3D is a software application developed by Autodesk for creating and managing GIS and computer-aided design (CAD) projects. It is part of the Autodesk AutoCAD family of products.
- Global Mapper
Global Mapper is a commercial GIS software package for manipulating and analyzing spatial data. The software also includes various tools for performing spatial analysis, such as terrain modeling, 3D rendering, and image rectification. In addition, Global Mapper can create and export maps and interactively digitize new features.
- ArcGIS Earth
ArcGIS Earth is a 3D mapping and visualization application developed by Esri, a company specializing in GIS software. It allows users to explore, visualize, and analyze geospatial data, including satellite imagery, terrain, 3D buildings, and other features.
- MapInfo Pro
MapInfo Pro is a commercial GIS software. It is used for creating, editing, visualizing, analyzing, and disseminating geographic information. The software is known for its powerful mapping and spatial analysis tools and ability to handle large amounts of data.
- ArcGIS Online
ArcGIS Online is a cloud-based mapping and analytics platform developed by Esri, a company specializing in GIS software. It is part of the ArcGIS platform and allows users to create, share, and use maps, apps, and other geospatial content. It provides a wide range of tools for creating, editing, and visualizing geographic data and performing spatial analysis and data management.
FAQ: About Google Maps alternatives
Is Google Maps free for developers?
According to Google’s Developer resource, all of its Maps Embed API requests are available for free with unlimited usage.
Will Google Maps work offline?
Yes. To use Google Maps offline, you’ll need to download an area on the map you’re planning to head to. Offline maps will continue to guide you as long as the entire route is within your downloaded map.
Which is better, Waze or Google Maps?
The answer depends on your needs. Many drivers opt to use Waze as it provides real-time traffic updates and crowd-sourced user reports to improve the experience for other drivers. On the other hand, those who take public transportation may enjoy using Google Maps more.
What is the best app for driving directions?
Waze, Google Maps, and Apple Maps are some of the top apps for driving directions.
Comments
I love this ExpressVPN
OsmAnd is great, and I try to support it whenever I can, but without real-time traffic updates, I find it really difficult to peel myself away from Google Maps. OsmAnd+ has tried multiple times to integrate a traffic overlay, but has not been successful. Maps.Me HAS traffic information, but that portion is closed source, and Maps.me obviously (as you mentioned) has its own privacy implications with advertisements (ugh).
I think mobile all OSM implementations should have an opt-in feature to report real-time speed and GPS location so we can build the platform and structure to have a real-time traffic data layer to make the switch from Google Maps easier.
Until google open up AA for other mapping, I am stuck with it