Apple Maps works well most of the time, but several strong GPS alternatives are available for CarPlay. Apple Maps is the default navigation option across the Apple ecosystem, including CarPlay, so asking Siri for directions usually opens it unless you specify another app. Users in the EU can set a different default navigation app. Many alternatives stand out for specific purposes, such as better traffic data or wider coverage in certain regions.
Google Maps is the most obvious alternative and remains a strong one. Many people prefer it for its traffic data and business listings, which tend to be updated more frequently and include more reviews. It also generally offers broader coverage outside the US. Its CarPlay interface may not look as polished as Apple Maps, but its benefits make it worth keeping. Apple makes it harder to use Google Maps as the default in most parts of the world, so Siri requests must end with "on Google Maps."
Waze suits drivers who spend a lot of time stuck in traffic. Its biggest selling point is real-time alerts from other drivers covering heavy traffic, speed cameras, accidents and road hazards. Because Waze is owned by Google, it also offers Gemini-powered Conversational Reporting, which lets drivers report incidents by speaking naturally. It lacks an offline mode and can feel cluttered with frequent alerts, though its interface is highly customizable.
TomTom delivers the classic dedicated GPS experience with distraction-free directions and cleaner maps than Apple Maps. Its interface has very few buttons, and it is known for highly accurate navigation with regular updates for speed cameras, roadblocks and lane guidance. The TomTom GO app is now free. Magic Earth, powered by OpenStreetMap, offers an ad-free experience with 2D and 3D navigation and promises that user data is not sold to third parties.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing