While Apple Maps continues to chase after Google Maps’ feature set, many agree Apple needs to speed up updates to compete effectively. The recent detailed city view update was a big step, but its expansion plans remain unclear.
There have been some quieter improvements though. Apple recently rolled out cycling directions in Norway, indicating a shift towards comprehensive navigation, not just for drivers. This feature offers turn-by-turn guidance for cyclists, allowing them to get around using their iPhone or Apple Watch.
Beyond basic directions, cyclists receive additional helpful information. They can see elevation details, identify main and side roads along the route, and even anticipate if there’s a walking segment at the end. This lets them plan for any challenging hills.
The detailed city view remains Apple Maps’ most significant update to date. It introduced in-house maps with new features like Look Around and incident reporting. Apple is taking a multi-pronged approach to improve Apple Maps.
Like Waze, users can report hazards, contributing data to a crowdsourced traffic information system. This allows Apple Maps to stay up-to-date on road conditions, providing warnings to other users traveling through the flagged areas.
While the competition heats up in the in-car navigation scene, Apple appears to be slowing down innovation. This lull is particularly concerning since Apple doesn’t have a self-driving car to spearhead its automotive strategy. Without a hardware solution, software and services become even more crucial for Apple’s in-car aspirations.
Apple Maps and CarPlay, therefore, should be the company’s strongest assets. However, both have been languishing without major updates recently, and CarPlay is still missing the significant overhaul that was promised in 2022.
This lack of progress from Apple is especially glaring when compared to its rivals, like Google Maps, which is constantly rolling out new features. Google has recently added a speedometer and incident reporting specifically for CarPlay users, demonstrating its commitment to staying ahead in the in-car navigation space.
With Apple seemingly taking a break, Google is making a strategic push to solidify its dominance on Apple’s turf, potentially leaving Apple scrambling to catch up if it decides to refocus its efforts on mapping and in-car services.
