Advanced Cycling Directions

In line with its environmental goals, Apple is also adding new travel options that are better for the planet, with new cycling directions that will go a step beyond what most other mapping apps use — one of the rare cases where Apple is lapping competitors like Google Maps on a new feature.

While Google has had cycling directions for a while, Apple will add much more detailed information for cyclists, letting them know what their rides will be like. For example, directions will include details on elevation changes so that cyclists know if they can expect a challenging ride with step hills or an easy one with flat terrain. They’ll also note whether there are stairs on the route and whether roads are quiet or busy. Turn-by-turn directions will advise cyclists when they need to dismount to cross streets or climb stairs, and routing options will allow the choice to avoid stairs altogether.

Due to the amount of detail that Apple will be putting into this one, it’s only rolling out in New York City, Los Angeles, and the San Francisco Bay area initially, along with several cities in China, although of course Apple promises that many more will be coming.