...and Apple Maps is trapped on only one platform (iOS - not even a web gateway), so only receiving a relative trickle of usage-based feedback... and Apple Maps perhaps only ever existed as a leverage chip against Google.
Apple Maps might need to ally with other Google rivals to get the mindshare/critical-mass needed to have any competitive chance.
Good point, maybe Apple will let users embed them in web pages and wave any fees for x years. Google and Bing charge after a certain number of free API requests so Apple should offer it for free for a while. It's not like they are hurting for cash ;)
Apple Maps might need to ally with other Google rivals to get the mindshare/critical-mass needed to have any competitive chance.