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Apple bets on third party developers to fill Google Maps void

Apple bets on third-party developers to fill Google Maps void

By NDTV Correspondent | Updated: 14 June 2012 16:25 IST

Apple has confirmed that the new Maps applications in iOS 6 will not include transit and walking directions. Instead, Apple will "integrate, feature and promote" third-party applications that provide the same functionality.

Google has provided Maps data and information like routes and transit/ walking direction on iOS since the platform's launch. On Monday, however, Apple announced that it is dumping Google and will go ahead with its own mapping application (See: Apple reveals own maps program, challenging Google). Apple's offering lacks many features present in the Google powered Maps application in iOS 5. This includes transit (e.g. Metro/ public transport routes) and walking directions in many regions of the world. Apple has confirmed that it will work closely with developers to close this gap.

"When building Maps, we looked around and realised the best transit apps for metros, for hiking, for biking, are coming from our developers," iOS software chief Scott Forstall told developers at WWDC. "And so instead of trying to develop those ourselves, we are going to integrate and feature and promote your apps for transit right within the Maps app in iOS 6."

Apple also explained that while the new Maps application will offer turn-by-turn navigation (Google maps doesn't), it will also let third-party applications register themselves as routing apps and make those services available to the OS.

The notes released to developers say "Apps that offer routing information, such as turn-by-turn navigation services, can now register as a routing app and make those services available to the entire system". It goes on to add "Registering as a routing app gives you more opportunities to get your app in front of users. Routing apps are not limited to just driving or walking directions. Routing apps can also include apps that provide directions for the user's favourite bicycle or hiking trail, for air routes, and for subway or other public transportation lines." (Source)

Apple has also confirmed that the all Maps features will not be available to all countries or devices. A note on Apple's website reads "Some features may not be available in all countries or all areas. Flyover and turn-by-turn navigation will be available only on iPhone 4S and iPad 2 or later."

Also see: Five new features in iOS 6

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