Apple Maps Takes a Giant Leap with Hidden CarPlay Feature

A newly discovered feature in Apple Maps is changing the way users navigate during road trips. The hidden CarPlay feature, which allows for offline maps and turn-by-turn directions, has been gaining attention for its ability to keep users on track even without a stable internet connection. According to a report by Pocket-lint, this feature has been a game-changer for those who frequently embark on long road trips.

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Apple Maps and the policy shift

The introduction of this feature comes at a time when Apple Maps is facing stiff competition from Google Maps. According to Elyse Betters Picaro of ZDNET, Google Maps has been the preferred choice for many users due to its fast routing, AI-powered features, and rich discovery capabilities. However, Maps has been working to close the gap, with a focus on providing a cleaner and simpler user experience geared towards Apple users.

Google Maps wins for fast routing, AI, and rich discovery features. Apple Maps is cleaner, simpler, and geared toward Apple users. Both apps are close, but Google Maps is more powerful overall. - Elyse Betters Picaro, ZDNET

What Apple Maps Means for the Navigation App Market

The addition of the hidden CarPlay feature in Maps is significant. As it enhances the user experience for road trips and makes the app more competitive with Google Maps. According to AppleMagazine, Maps is getting a more connected role across Apple's OS 27 cycle, with the app becoming less of a simple navigation tool and more of a daily planning layer across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, CarPlay, and Siri.

This development is part of a larger trend. With Apple aiming to make its Maps app more comprehensive and integrated across its ecosystem. As reported by Lifehacker, there are several hacks that Maps users can utilize to get the most out of the app, from customizing routes to using the app's hidden features.

The latest reporting keeps the focus on Maps. Readers now have a clearer view of why this update matters.

Sources

• I found a hidden CarPlay feature that keeps me on track during road trips
• ZDNET
• AppleMagazine
• Lifehacker