Fun. I get your point, but I, on the other hand, can't happily commit to a service that is "free".

The real problem of Apple Maps is that outside of the US it's quite poor, so one is forced to use google maps quite frequently.

I am of the opinion that Apple Maps are pretty bad outside of Cali. The locations are not exactly accurate for the remote locations of the United States. They seems to be exceptionally interested in improving lives of Californians who use iPhone.

I have to say that in Italy (and Europe) in general they are not that bad. Still way behind google maps. Like anything else unfortunately.

Anyway my point stands: if something doesn't have a clear business model, I'm not happy using it. If the business model is ads I'm very unhappy using it.

I don't understand what commitment there is. If you go somewhere and have an iPhone with you, you can route with Apple Maps. There's no commitment to use it later when you look up a place on your PC.