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India’s push for local apps from the government brings Mappls back into the limelight, but can this platform challenge a giant like Google Maps?
Zoho’s Arattai is going after WhatsApp, and Mappls is eyeing Google Maps
Arattai has got the country talking about its WhatsApp-like features and encryption (only on calls yet). And now, you have a Swadeshi app vying for a spot on your phone instead of the mighty Google Maps.
The company MapMyIndia offers a wide range of navigation services, including its phone app Mappls which is the Indian version of Maps that you can use to search for places, restaurants and even get them in a 3D view. Just like Zoho’s Arattai messaging app, Maps has been around for many years, even more than the former but its visibility has been limited because of Maps already pre-installed by Google on millions of Android phones.
What Is Mappls And Can It Rival Google Maps?
Mappls is the navigation app for mobile users developed by MapmyIndia which is the technology company known for its navigation services, devices and more. It is very much like Google Maps in terms of the interface and usability but its features are actually more locally tuned to the needs of the Indian users.
In fact, a few years back, Mappls was the go-to app during the G20 Summit in Delhi that offered real-time traffic updates provided by the Delhi Traffic Police.
What Features Do You Get With Mappls?
Mappls is pretty basic for a navigation app but it does go deeper with its localised touch. Google Maps is pretty vague with the gates being closed or areas barricaded during the night. Mappls is able to track all of this important data and give you while you are riding or driving to these points. You have the standard four wheeler and two-wheeler mode available which calculates the travel time based on where and how you are going.
Mappls also gives you 3D view, satellite view and and also makes sure you don’t miss the flyover with a clear identity marked, something Google Maps finally got a few years back only. However, Mappls is pushing a lot of in-house content and its own app store that you can access by creating an account which is not the case with Google Maps.
Mappls has a better chance to become the local alternative to a global platform like Google Maps, and its work for many years shows the value. We know that Maps has made people very comfortable and jumping ship is not easy but if you plan on using local apps, Mappls is a good option, for both Android and iOS users.
FAQ
What is the use of MapmyIndia?
MapMyIndia is a technology company that works in the navigation sector
Why is MapmyIndia better than Google Maps?
MapMyIndia offers Mappls app for navigation that is made in India and offers better features for users.
Can Apple users access MapmyIndia?
Yes, you can download Mappls app from Apple App Store
Who is the owner of MapmyIndia?
Rakesh Verma is the Chairman and co-founder of MapmyIndia
S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr…Read More
S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr… Read More
Delhi, India, India
October 14, 2025, 12:38 IST
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