Chinese internet users are finding it much easier to use Google Maps after eight years of the service being tightly limited.
While Google's flagship search function is still inaccessible in the country, the renewed availability of its map service could signal a shift in the Chinese government's stance toward the U.S. tech behemoth.
Until recently, internet users in China could not access Google Maps through apps on their mobile phones. But in recent days, users have found that applications that offer maps based on Google data have become accessible. Now, when a user seeks directions to a destination on these maps, they are redirected to a Chinese map application run by AutoNavi, an affiliate of Alibaba Group Holding, which provides the directions.
"There have been no changes to Google Maps in China," said Taj Meadows, head of Google's policy communications in the Asia Pacific. Google Maps have been accessible on desktop for years, but do not have an official presence in Android or iOS app stores in China, he said.
There have been, however, various unofficial applications that used Google's map technology. While previously blocked, they have recently become accessible, making it possible for users to have the Google experience.
On Monday, Chinese netizens were hailing the revival of Google Maps as the American company's return to China, where its trademark search and other services have been unavailable since 2010. While Google began offering a translation app for Chinese smartphones in March 2017, the map service has a much wider appeal, and is one of Google's best-known offerings.
Chinese internet users are finding it much easier to use Google Maps after eight years of the service being tightly limited.
Until recently, internet users in China could not access Google Maps through apps on their mobile phones. But in recent days, users have found that applications that offer maps based on Google data have become accessible. Now, when a user seeks directions to a destination on these maps, they are redirected to a Chinese map application run by AutoNavi, an affiliate of Alibaba Group Holding, which provides the directions.
There have been, however, various unofficial applications that used Google's map technology. While previously blocked, they have recently become accessible, making it possible for users to have the Google experience.
