5 New, Upgraded, and Hidden Apple Maps Features Coming to iOS 15

iOS 15 will launch publicly this fall with a few key redesigns and a handful of new features that'll reduce distraction, beef up privacy, and more. One app seeing a significant overhaul is Apple Maps, which sports a new look and feel along with a handful of key new features. Some of these features, like AR walking directions, were showcased at WWDC, while a few were hidden, uncovered only by observant beta testers. Continue reading to browse them all.

Extreme Weather Rerouting

Apple Maps not only chooses the fastest route but, in iOS 15, it also will take into account local weather conditions. Is it raining or snowing where you are? Not to worry, Apple Maps knows if there is a flash flood warning or blizzard conditions. Apple Maps then will provide alternate routes that allow you to bypass the extreme conditions. It's not clear how many different types of weather events Apple Maps takes into account. Nonetheless, it is a worthwhile addition that helps you avoid unexpected delays. 

Upgraded Driving Maps

In iOS 15, Apple Maps will improve the driving experience with new detailed driving maps. Drivers will be able to see turning lanes, crosswalks, and even bike lanes. Smart and detailed, Maps will automatically zoom into a street-level view if you encounter a particularly complex intersection. With these new traffic lanes and street-level views, drivers won't have to guess. Instead, they will know exactly where they need to go. Maps also will display road closures and traffic issues so drivers can find an alternate route if needed. 

Detailed City Maps

Apple increased map details across the board, but the company added even more information in select cities like New York and San Francisco. The detailed maps in these cities can display individual neighborhoods, business districts, and important buildings. It can even show you a 3D representation of notable landmarks so users can get a sneak peek before they do some sightseeing.

New Augmented Reality Walks

Apple made navigating a city on foot much more straightforward with new augmented reality walking instructions. Once enabled, pedestrians can follow the step-by-step AR directions that overlay the real-world street view. AR walking directions are limited to newer iPhones with an A12 chip or later. The A12 first debuted in the iPhone XS and XR series, which launched in 2018. Any phone since the iPhone XS/XR will support these enhanced walking directions.

New Immersive Globe View

Before iOS 15, you could zoom out on your map and see a world map. Now in iOS 15, you can zoom out to observe a new globe view. In this view, you can spin the globe and zoom in on another area. The interface is easier to use than a map view and is smoother when scrolling and adjusting the zoom level. To improve the experience even further, Apple added topographical and ecological details that let you find mountain ranges, deserts, oceans, and more. When you zoom in, you can see pertinent information such as elevation, photos, and guides so you can learn more about the location.