Apple Maps hasn’t precisely bought the perfect rep in Australia. For years, the native Maps app was virtually unusable, forcing many an iPhone consumer onto Google Maps, which I don’t learn about you, however it could all the time make my iPhone overheat and was simply an annoying time after I’d obtain an tackle by way of iMessage. However Apple has been giving Maps some updates to alter all this.
In late 2021, Apple gave Maps a massive overhaul. The Apple Maps replace laid the groundwork for it to push out options to Aussie customers simply, giving us all a motive to rethink opening that third-party app. It’s a part of Apple’s objective to be the world’s greatest map.
Properly, right now, Apple Maps has been given a number of further options down underneath. However, should you don’t reside in Sydney or Melbourne, you may be just a little irritated.
So what’s new?
Customers websites in Sydney and Melbourne could have entry to Apple Maps’ 3D cities expertise. The maps are nonetheless cartoon-like, so the 3D component is extra about making the websites look extra practical than actual. This consists of including shadows, extra particulars for issues like bridges and buildings, you’ll be able to see foliage cowl that’s not only a splatter of inexperienced however a render of what the precise cowl seems to be like in actual life and it additionally means you’ll see roads higher, which embrace flip indicators, bus and taxi lanes, and crosswalks, as some examples.
As you’re driving by, you’ll be able to see, for instance, a bridge move you by.
To seize this, Apple’s groups took photographs and movies of the areas in the true world. The consequence? The element on the map matches the true world extra carefully.
The Apple Maps replace additionally features a handful of custom-designed landmarks (round 12) such because the Melbourne Cricket Floor and Sydney Harbour Bridge, which boast a whole lot of element. You can even see lights coming from inside one among these landmarks when nighttime switches over.
Additionally coming as a part of the Maps replace is windshield view for drivers utilizing the Apple app. When approaching overlapping complicated interchanges, Maps will now present a road-level view, making it simpler to see upcoming site visitors circumstances or the perfect lane for an approaching exit. Exterior of the automotive, nevertheless, you’ll additionally obtain immersive strolling instructions proven in augmented actuality – a function beforehand reserved for these in Sydney and Melbourne however now made obtainable to Perth, Canberra, Brisbane and Adelaide.
As a part of its Maps replace, Apple additionally launched Cycling Navigation across Australia. You’ll be able to learn extra about that here.