Recent reports have hinted that the next version of the iOS platform of Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) may come with a maps service that would result to the removal of Google Maps from the operating system. The iOS 6 of Apple is expected to be released within the year and it may come with its own maps application. According to trusted sources Apple was reportedly working on an alternative to the Google Maps service that will be integrated into the iOS 6. This was revealed recently by an Apple focused website.
The upcoming maps service will reportedly be called Maps and will supposedly offer a more efficient and reliable experience to user of the upcoming iOS 6. The Maps application of Apple will also offer directions for drivers and find locations on a map. The iOS 6 application will also offer an experience similar to StreetView as well as a 3D mode that will allow users to view locations more realistically.
iOS 6
A number of mapping companies were acquired by Apple in the past few years and these companies have been a part of the development of the application on the iOS 6. The 3D mode of the Maps application was being developed by C3 Technologies, a company from Sweden that was acquired by Apple last year.
The other companies that were acquired by Apple were tasked on the development on the other features of the application on the iOS 6. A mapping service that has some similarities to Google Maps was also acquired by Apple in 2009.
The recent reported developments on the iOS 6 summarize the past actions of Apple in gradually removing Google Maps. Data from OpenStreetMap was used by Apple for its iPhoto application on the iOS since March although the company did not make this revelation until recently.
No statements were issued by Apple in connection to the reported development of a maps service for its upcoming iOS 6 platform.
