Google Maps finds its way back to iPhone after Apple flop

Google has navigated the return of its Maps app to the iPhone, months after Apple's infamous in-house mapping effort flopped.

The latest Google version, which is available in more than 40 countries and 29 languages, has been rolled out across the world in the iTunes App Store.

Apple had attempted to promote its own service in early September, dropping Google Maps as it launched the iPhone 5 and rolled out iOS 6, an upgrade to its mobile software platform.

But while the Apple version offered soaring 'flyover' views of major cities, it had no public transport directions, limited traffic information, and a host of embarrassing visual gaffes.

Among the more popular mistakes, the Eiffel Tower was left flattened, New York's Brooklyn Bridge was pictured dropping into a crumpled abyss and one city was even marooned in the middle of the ocean.

The derided Apple Maps service prompted user complaints, the firing of an executive and a rare public apology from Apple chief executive Tim Cook.

Australian police even labelled the maps "life-threatening" after the system mis-directed people looking for the city of Mildura into a sweltering, remote desert 44 miles from the desired destination.

The Google Maps app will be compatible with any iPhone or iPod Touch that runs iOS 5.1 or higher, the company said in a blog post.