Apple rivals Google with ‘biggest ever’ update – here’s what’s new in Apple Maps

Apple is fully ready to take on the might of Google Maps with the US technology giant pushing out a huge upgrade to iPhones across the globe. In fact, Apple is promising that this is its ‘biggest ever’ update to the mapping service since it first launched back in 2012. That original release came with its fair share of issues but, over the years, all of the initial bugs and glitches have been removed with this latest version making things far more useful, feature-packed and immersive.

Once downloaded as part of the recent iOS 15 update, iPhone users will now find the app has had a complete overhaul starting with an interactive three-dimensional globe view that allows you to spin across the world. You can even see details of the tallest mountains, biggest deserts and tree-filled rainforests.

For those living in more urban areas, Apple has now added stunning three-dimensional city views in areas including London, Los Angeles, New York City, and San Francisco.

These highly detailed maps show iconic buildings and famous landmarks such as the London Eye and Statue of Liberty with users able to zoom in and around for the ultimate city tour.

Other updates include improved public transport directions which will help iPhone owners get from A to B more easily when using buses, trains or the underground.

Once a route is selected, Maps will even automatically notify a user when it is time to disembark the bus or tube as they approach their final destination.

For those that would rather use their two feet, Apple Maps has introduced step-by-step walking guidance in augmented reality. This allows iPhone owners to scan buildings in the area, and Maps generates a highly accurate position to deliver detailed directions that can be viewed in the context of the real world.

Finally, there’s a big upgrade when using Maps in the car. Maps now features even more road details to help drivers navigate through cities with bus and taxi lanes, and pedestrian crossings and more all clearly displayed.

Complex road layouts are now rendered in a road-level 3D view, making it easier to see upcoming traffic conditions or the best lane for an approaching exit. New route planning also provides the estimated time of arrival for future departures based on expected traffic. If you have a car with Apple’s CarPlay installed you’ll see this information displayed on the screen when an update arrives later this year.

“We are thrilled to offer the new Apple Maps experience. Maps is the best way to navigate the world: It is easy to use, beautifully designed, and built with privacy at its core. With this update, we are pushing Maps even further, providing more ways for users to discover the natural beauty of the world and explore cities through a new 3D view,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services. “Our goal has always been to build the best and most accurate map in the world. The upgrades in Apple Maps are a continuation of that effort, with features and an attention to detail that only Apple can deliver.”