1 Apple Maps

Ah, Apple Maps. It’s definitely made headlines a time or two. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, or never look at the stock apps, you already know what Apple Maps is. But, have you used it to its full potential?

For those of you that are new to iOS, it originally featured Google Maps. Apple Maps made the leap to beautiful vector graphics that have since become available on other mapping apps including Google Maps. Apple Maps also hasn’t had a good track record in terms of reliable maps. But, it’s constantly improving and users can now suggest improvements right from within the app.

Despite its shortcomings, Apple Maps is an enjoyable experience when all goes well; and, it can be the perfect travel companion. It includes detailed indoor maps for select malls and airports, 3D views in major cities, and you can search for places to eat, sleep, or shop from within the app. Apple Maps links with many third-party apps letting users book rides through apps like Uber or Lyft, read reviews on Yelp, and even make reservations.

Apple Maps also includes transit information, live traffic conditions, turn-by-turn navigation with speed limits and lane information, and offline navigation when a destination has been set. Users can favorite locations, see the last place they parked, and find out if their next stop supports Apple Pay.

Apple Maps is included on iPad, iPhone, and Apple Watch by default.

Highlights and Features

• See 3D view of major cities in satellite or vector graphics
• A unique flyover view is available in some major cities
• See traffic conditions and speed limits, book a ride, or get transit information directly within the app
• Indoor maps are available for major airports and shopping malls
• Apple Watch provides haptic feedback prior to turns