Free mapping service for iOS

Since the dawn of smartphones, Google Maps has been the premier option for mobile mapping service. And while there have been other navigation apps, various users still look up to this software when they need direction. Years back, Apple decided to join the party with Apple Maps. It is a free map app that works very similarly with Google Maps. It offers features, including driving directions, turn-by-turn navigation, and walking and public transportation. There is a huge catch, though. The app is exclusive to Apple hardware.

Mapping features reimagined

When Apple first introduced Apple Maps, the app struggled with technical issues. There have been cases of wrong directions and glitches. Users also noticed the lack of public transport support. Suffice to say it did not meet the public’s expectations.

Fast forward, and the app made a big redesign. Apple rolled out a data-rich map with reinvested infrastructure to make it an exceptional mapping service. It used hundreds of cars and planes with cameras and LIDAR sensors to gather data and expand the app’s road coverage. 

And the reinvention did not end there. When there was the buggy flyover feature back then, which provides an AR-style birds-eye-view of the major cities, Apple says that the feature is now available in 350 cities around the globe. Users will also be happy about the real-time transit information, which includes live departure times, outages, and cancellations of a public transit system. 

But what users will appreciate more is the integration of Siri. With this, you only need to invoke Siri and tell her where you want to go. Apple Maps will launch and send you on your way. You can even make voice adjustments en route. 

Aside from voice navigation, Apple Maps also has the City Tours feature, which automatically guides you to various city landmarks. Of course, you can also use the app to find establishments, such as restaurants. More, you can open their websites within the app and make reservations. 

Finally, Apple Maps work to make getting around easier. Aside from turn-by-turn navigation, you can also use the app to check real-time traffic conditions and get guidance on the road, just like Waze. You can even see speed limits for the road you’re driving on. 

Slightly different interface

If you have been using Google Maps for your navigation needs and are making the switch to Apple Maps, you might notice some subtle differences that need adjusting to. With Apple Maps, the map rendition is a bit flatter and shows more default locations. However, the text and icons are smaller. So, if your vision is less than stellar, the locations can be hard to make out.

The search bar for Apple Maps is also placed at the bottom of the screen. To change the map setting, you need to tap the information button in the upper right corner, which will then take you to a second screen where you can make the adjustments. Additionally, the app has custom icons for popular landmarks instead of map pins.

When it comes to driving navigation, Apple Maps is as straightforward as Google Maps. But, if you zoom in or choose the walking option, you’ll notice that Apple has more locations. And because Apple uses vector graphics, its satellite view has a more photographic and conceptual look.

An impressive way to explore

The new version of Apple Maps makes it a viable contender to Google Maps and other familiar mapping services. Not only is the app more accurate now, but it also has advanced features that help users navigate the streets easier. Also, it has no ads that will interrupt your usage. There are a few caveats that need polishing, though, including the hard-to distinguish icons and texts. More, some of its features, such as the look around, are only limited to a few cities. But, despite that, the app is still a great help in exploring and discovering places.