Apple has today announced that it is in the process of completely rebuilding Apple Maps, writes TechCrunch. The new version has been built using first-party data obtained from iPhones and also from Apple’s own special fleet of cars that have been kitted out with sensors and cameras. The new maps are set to launch first in San Francisco, then in the Bay Area, via the next iOS 12 Beta, coming to the whole of Northern California by fall. The updated maps, which will eventually roll out all over the world, will respond more quickly to changes in roads and construction, and will also be more visually detailed, depending on the location, with more detailed ground cover, foliage, pools, pedestrian walkways, and so on. Four years of work have already gone into the new maps. Apple’s aim is to eventually no longer have to rely on third-party data for its maps, and instead use entirely its own data. Source: Apple is rebuilding Maps from the ground up
Apple is using a Subaru XV to Create Apple Maps in Brisbane, Australia I was driving into Brisbane City (Australia) today when a White Subaru XV with a tall post on the roof came in from the left-hand side on the western freeway. This is Apple's new Mapping vehicles for updating Apple Maps I have posted a short video taken from my Dod Dash Cam. On the top of the post, there is a high-speed spinning camera below that are several cameras pointing a full 360 I realize the white car is in front of the black vehicle but at the start, you can clearly see the camera pod. I have attached a still frame from the video for a closer look at the car The article below explains more. Apple begins using smaller Subaru cars to capture Apple Maps data https://goo.gl/q1H6Q8 https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=309016189878635 Still image taken from Dod cam
I suspect that apple maps are North America centric, certainly in Australia they are nowhere near as accurate as google maps; the result is that they are not used and get little or no feedback that might help them improve. Very much a case of second to the market and always in catchup mode. Why else would apple be looking at a ground up rebuild?