Google Adds 'Street View' for iOS Web Browsers

NEW YORK (TheStreet) - As soon as Apple (AAPL) announced it had removed Google's (GOOG) Maps app from iOS 6 and replaced it with its own new software title, Google announced a plan of its own. The search giant told iOS users that they could still use Google Maps via their device's built-in Web browser.

The shortcomings of Apple's new maps app became legend almost immediately. Within days of release, Apple boss Tim Cook had to apologize to iOS 6 users. He suggested other software alternatives until the Cupertino, Calif.-based company improved its new offering.

As for Google, it warned that while using Maps on a Web browser was a good substitute, it was not exactly the same experience as fans had with the previous app. But Google said it was busy working on adding features to the Web solution, as well as creating a new, standalone experience.

On Thursday, Google came through - at least with the first part. Early this morning, the Mountain View, Calif.-based firm added its popular Street View to its Web-based Maps. Now, all you need to do is tap the familiar little guy icon at the bottom of the screen and you'll, once again, get a first-person glimpse at your surroundings.

As for the new Street View experience, it's still a blast to use, but because you're using it via a Web browser movements are reportedly not exactly as fluid as with the built-on iOS 5 app.

But, fear not. Google is still working on a new, native, standalone version of Maps and hopes to have it available for download in Apple's App Store before year's end.

--Written by Gary Krakow in New York.

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Gary Krakow is TheStreet's senior technology correspondent.