Apple Maps 3D View Now Available in London, LA, NYC & San Francisco

Apple Expands 3D Maps to Major Cities

Apple is extending the availability of its immersive 3D maps to additional urban centers through the Apple Maps application. Included in this expansion are prominent locations such as London, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco.

This enhancement, introduced alongside iOS 15, represents a significant investment over several years aimed at bolstering Apple’s mapping platform. The goal is to increase its competitiveness against the leading provider, Google Maps.

Improvements to the Apple Maps Experience

The improvements encompass not only the introduction of 3D maps, now reaching major metropolitan areas, but also more comprehensive map details, enhanced transit functionalities, augmented reality (AR) viewing capabilities, and further refinements.

The rollout of these features has been phased, with major cities across the United States and globally being prioritized for the initial enhancements. For instance, AR viewing was only recently launched in select cities earlier this year.

With the new 3D maps, Apple Maps users can now experience a greater level of detail within cities. This includes views of neighborhoods, commercial areas, marinas, buildings, and more, according to the company.

Elevation data, updated road labeling, and uniquely designed landmarks are also incorporated into the 3D experience.

Iconic Landmarks in 3D

Apple Maps will showcase detailed renderings of renowned landmarks. Examples include Coit Tower in San Francisco, Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, the Statue of Liberty in New York City, and the Royal Albert Hall in London. Additional landmarks will be added over time.

Further expansion is planned, with 3D maps becoming available in Philadelphia, San Diego, and Washington, D.C. later this year. Next year will see the addition of Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.

Enhanced Navigation Features

Apple is also refining its road-level navigation within Apple Maps. Turn lanes, medians, bus lanes, taxi lanes, and crosswalks will be more clearly indicated.

These elements are presented in a 3D viewing mode, simplifying the process of selecting the optimal lane based on traffic conditions and improving overall route planning. The app will also provide estimated arrival times, mirroring the functionality of Google Maps.

This updated navigation system, previously announced for a 2021 release, is scheduled to arrive in CarPlay later this year, though a specific date has not been disclosed.

Additional Updates and Features

Other significant map updates, initially revealed earlier this year, are also currently being deployed. These include improved transit features designed to make Apple Maps a stronger competitor to popular third-party transit apps like Citymapper.

Nearby transit stations are now prominently displayed at the top of the screen, and users can pin their preferred transit lines within Maps for quick access. Upon selecting a route, Maps will automatically notify users when it’s time to disembark, with tracking available on the Apple Watch.

Apple Maps now offers more immersive walking directions with step-by-step guidance powered by augmented reality. Users can scan their surroundings with their phone, allowing Maps to generate a more precise location and provide more detailed instructions.

iOS 15 users can also explore a new 3D globe of the earth. The app also features an Explore Guides button, providing access to curated Guides from brands such as Time Out, The Washington Post, the National Park Foundation, Complex, and The Infatuation. These guides offer suggestions for activities and attractions in cities worldwide.

Users also have the ability to create their own guides and share them with friends and family.