April 28, 2024

Apple Maps said to get two significant upgrades in iOS 18

With iOS 17, Apple Maps introduced offline maps, so users can easily select an area on their device and download it with just a tap. While offline, users are able to access turn-by-turn navigation and see their estimated time of arrival, seen here on a route to Yosemite National Park.

Apple is reportedly planning a few notable updates to Apple Maps as part of iOS 18. New rumors say iOS 18 will add two notable upgrades to Apple Maps: support for “custom route creation” in the United States and the expansion of topographic maps (currently available on Apple Watch) to the iPhone.

Chance Miller for 9to5Mac:

Custom route creation would allow iPhone users to plan their own specific routes for a trip, instead of using one of the routes suggested by Apple Maps. Right now, Apple Maps will suggest multiple routes to your destination, but this feature in iOS 18 would give you full control over the exact details of your route.

Meanwhile, the addition of topographic maps for Apple Maps on the iPhone comes after the Apple Watch added the feature was part of watchOS 10 last year. Here’s how Apple described the feature for watchOS 10: Apple Maps displays a new topographic map featuring contour lines, hill shading, elevation details, and points of interest. Users can also search for nearby trails and trailheads, with place cards that include detailed information, like trail length, type, and difficulty.

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MacDailyNews Take: Topographic maps are nice, but custom route creation (think drag to change route in Google Maps) is the feature we’ve been waiting for since Apple Maps made its debut on September 19, 2012.

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