The Apple Maps app is (officially) available on Apple devices , like iPhones and Macs . But thanks to DuckDuckGo , you can browse Apple Maps from any platform with a browser, including Windows and Android.
DuckDuckGo uses Apple Maps
In 2018, Apple announced MapKit JS, an API that allows developers to integrate Apple Maps into websites. Search engine DuckDuckGo took this framework and used it to build its own mapping tool.
To access it , all you have to do is do a simple search for a location on DuckDuckGo and click on the Maps filter at the top of the page (just like with other search engines). You can also search by the name of the location and the word map (next to the location name).
This way, you can get directions and choose between walking or driving directions. You can also see local businesses, but for this to work, you need to share your exact location using the map pin icon in the top right corner of the map.
DuckDuckGo's mapping solution is based on Apple Maps, but it doesn't offer quite the same capabilities as the app on a compatible device. There are no Apple-centric features, such as saving favorite locations to your iCloud account or syncing directions to a mobile device.
Although there is the ability to switch between normal map view and satellite imagery , Apple Maps ' impressive 3D photogrammetry is not available.
Why search engine DuckDuckGo chose Apple Maps
Previously, DuckDuckGo used a combination of OpenStreetMap, Bing Maps, and HERE Maps, but it didn't have its own mapping solution. The search engine emphasizes user privacy, so using a service like Google Maps, which collects data about users, wasn't a good option.
The lack of data collection was what set Apple Maps apart and allowed DuckDuckGo to announce the partnership in early 2019. The search engine assured its users that:
“Our strict privacy policy of not collecting or sharing personal information is extended with this integration. We do not send information , such as IP addresses, to Apple or other third parties.“.
The search engine also emphasized that location information is deleted immediately after use.
Source: How-To Geek
