MapQuest's Retro Revival Falls Short in Modern Navigation
MapQuest recently gained attention for its decision to keep Lake Ontario's name as is, despite other navigation apps like Google and Apple defaulting to a new name mandated by an executive order. This sparked an interest in revisiting MapQuest, which has undergone significant changes over the years. The app now offers a nostalgic experience with a retro vibe, including 8-bit gaming-like elements, such as icons that resemble characters from classic video games.
However, despite its charming interface, MapQuest lacks some essential features found in competing navigation apps. For instance, it does not offer Street View, which is a useful tool for verifying building locations and appearances. Additionally, the app has stricter stop limits and lacks some features frequently used by delivery drivers.
A week-long test of MapQuest revealed that its accuracy was inconsistent, with occasional mistakes in routing and navigation. In one instance, the app directed the author to a lakefront restaurant that had closed over a year ago, while also misnaming a rural street. While these errors were relatively minor, they highlight the need for users to verify MapQuest's accuracy before relying on it as their primary navigation tool.
MapQuest's privacy policies are also worth noting, as the app collects some user data through Google Play Services. This is not drastically different from competing apps, but it may be a concern for those seeking a strictly privacy-first solution.