US: Apple unveiled its new Maps app for iOS at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in San Francisco, US. But, it did not reveal the name of its map data provider. In the meanwhile, TomTom also made an announcement that it has signed a global agreement with Apple for Maps and other information.
So far, Google was providing the back end for Maps on iOS. With the introduction of the new Maps application, Apple is distancing themselves from Google.
TomTom is no stranger to iOS, as its navigation app and car kit have been available on the iPhone since 2009. On an interesting note, the maps application specifically mentions “data from TomTom, others,” which means there may be other suppliers that aren’t getting called out by name.
Commenting on this new update to Maps in the updated operating system, Apple states that iOS 6 includes an all new Maps app with vector-based map elements that make graphics and text smooth, and panning, tilting and zooming incredibly fluid. New turn-by-turn navigation guides one to their destination with spoken directions, and the Flyover feature has photo-realistic interactive 3D views. Real-time traffic information keeps one updated on how long it will take to get to their destination and offers alternate time-saving routes if traffic conditions change significantly. Additionally, local search includes information for over 100 million businesses with info cards that offer Yelp ratings, reviews, available deals and photos.
Source: tech2
