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MapQuest Rises in App Store Charts, Adds Android Auto Support
Key points
- MapQuest is #8 free app on iOS, #5 on Android in the US.
- Usage is 50 times its normal rate.
- Popularity surge linked to viral stance on "Lake America" map update.
- MapQuest is adding Android Auto support; CarPlay is already available.
MapQuest's Unexpected Resurgence
MapQuest, a mapping service with a 30-year history, has recently climbed to the top of app store charts. As of August 30, it was the #8 free app on the iOS App Store and the #5 free app on the Android Play Store in the US. The company reports this as its highest chart position ever, with usage increasing by roughly 50 times its typical rate.
Viral Stance Drives Popularity
The sudden increase in MapQuest's popularity is largely due to its decision not to update "Lake Ontario" on its platform. This refusal followed a US executive order that prompted other mapping services, including Google Maps and Apple Maps, to make the change. MapQuest's stance went viral, reminding users of the service's existence and driving new downloads.
Expanding Platform Support
To retain its new user base, MapQuest has confirmed it is actively developing support for Android Auto. The app already offers CarPlay integration for iPhone users. Android Auto has supported third-party navigation applications for several years, providing various options for users.
MapQuest currently provides turn-by-turn navigation and live traffic data, though it lacks features like live transit found in competitors such as Google Maps. MapQuest is owned by System1, an advertising company.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
MapQuest has seen a surge in popularity, reaching top positions on iOS and Android app store charts, with usage increasing by approximately 50 times its normal rate. This resurgence is attributed to its refusal to update "Lake Ontario" on its maps following a US executive order, a stance that went viral. In response to renewed user interest, MapQuest is developing Android Auto support, having already implemented CarPlay.