Apple is considering adding ‘topographic maps’ to iPhone and Macbook
According to a recent analysis by MacRumors, Apple is reportedly gearing up to add topographic maps to its Apple Maps app on multiple platforms, including iOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS 2. This move indicates that the company is looking to improve its navigation features.
Features of topographic maps
Topographic maps, first introduced with watchOS 10, provide users with important information for outdoor activities such as hiking. These maps include trails, contour lines, elevation data, and points of interest, providing users with accurate navigation tools to explore the outdoors with confidence.
Although the feature was initially exclusive to the Apple Watch, the company has steadily expanded its support for topographic maps across the United States. Now it seems that Apple is planning to expand this functionality to iOS, macOS and visionOS, potentially changing the way users navigate their devices.
Although the topographic maps backend was introduced last year, it remained dormant on iOS and macOS. However, recent observations of iOS 18, macOS 15, and visionOS 2 backend files indicate that Apple is actively working to expand the availability of topographic maps to these platforms. This development demonstrates Apple’s commitment to providing users with comprehensive navigation solutions tailored to their specific needs.
Possible custom route support
As expected of topographic maps comes another interesting Apple Maps feature: support for custom routes. Custom Routes allow users the flexibility to create personalized routes that offer a level of customization not previously available with Apple’s pre-selected options.
Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 10 promises to be an exciting event for Apple enthusiasts. It is expected that iOS 18 will be announced during the conference, along with several new features for Apple Maps. The addition of topographic maps and support for custom routes can greatly improve the mapping experience for users across the Apple ecosystem, allowing them to explore and navigate with greater precision and ease.
