Google ignores Apple iOS 6 maps snub

Search giant unmoved by future loss of iOS user base

Google has shrugged off Apple's decision to ditch its mapping software from the forthcoming iOS 6 software update.

Apple made the announcement at its World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC) on Monday evening. Several analysts have subsequently said Google stands to lose millions of users of its Map's tool as a result.

However, the firm appeared outwardly unconcerned, with a company representative telling V3 that Google remained focused on enhancing its suite of mapping services.

"We've been working on maps for years, in fact we just announced some exciting new developments for Google Maps and Google Earth last week, and are looking forward to continuing to build the perfect map for our users in the months and years ahead," the representative said.

These developments include plans for 3D aerial shots of major cities as well as Street View imagery from remote locations thanks to cameras that can be worn by staff (see below).

It is also set to make the service available offline on Android devices.

Analysts told V3 it was likely the firm would look to further enhance its Maps tool on Android to try and entice fans of the services away from Apple once native support for its tool is dropped.

Apple's own mapping service will be based on technology from sat-nav firm TomTom and is likely to be enhanced over time by technologies from several firms it has acquired in recent years such as C3 Technologies.