For years, Google Maps has been a go-to tool for millions worldwide, seamlessly integrated into search results for instant access to directions, locations, and more. But if you’ve noticed something missing recently, you’re not imagining things. Due to European Union regulations, Google has been forced to remove its Maps functionality from its search results, marking a significant shift in how we interact with the tech giant’s ecosystem.

  • Appoxo@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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    2 days ago

    That explains why I

    1. Can’t search for <city> and get a direct link to the maps + position
    2. The toolbar of services missing maps entirely.

    For all the things the EU does…What a stupid decision.

    • Bibbiliop@lemmy.world
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      2 days ago

      This may feel bad short term but this is actually good long term. It opens up the possibility for competitors for similar map services to exist. When google combined their search engine product with their maps product, everyone had to automatically use their map product. This is very monopolistic

      • sem@lemmy.blahaj.zone
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        2 days ago

        For example in duckduckgo you can type “city !gm” and it will take you to Google maps search results for “city”.

        You can also use ddg.gg as a quick way to be redirected to duckduckgo.com without having to type the whole thing

      • Appoxo@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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        2 days ago

        True but still annoying.
        Wondered if I did something wrong and this happened well before I read about it here.

    • sunbeam60@lemmy.one
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      23 hours ago

      Do you ever wonder why most Europeans has about 40 telecom companies offering you internet at your particular address? Regulation and anti-monopoly works.