Back when the iPhone 5 was all speculation and rumors, most industry analysts knew that the new iOS 6 would be getting rid of Google Maps and would be replacing it with its Apple’s own software which would feature 3D maps. At the time, it was announced that Toronto and Montreal would be available with 3D Map functionality and no other Canadian city mentioned at the time. It turns out that Apple has also included Calgary to their 3D Maps and users who have just gotten the new iPhone 5 have been able to view the city in all its 3D glory.
iPhone In Canada reported on September 16 that Apple’s webpage for iOS 6 Feature Availability that the country of Canada is not listed under 3D Buildings. Surprisingly though three cities are in the maps and all have excellent 3D viewing.
The 3D technology that Apple was using to map cities required an airplane that photographed the city. This is known as a 3D flyover and took time and money on the part of Apple. The California based manufacturer of the iPhone decided to focus on key cities first and then eventually add other cities as time went on. This is similar strategy to Google’s street view where a camera was physically ridden around a city so that people could get a street level view of the city.
The 3D technology was not developed in house by Apple and was acquired when the company bought Swedish firm C3 Technologies. The sale took place in October and the 3D mapping was integrated into iOS Maps app and was part of the release of the iPhone 5. The launch of the phone was flawless and Apple was able to make record breaking sales. However, early reports of glitches and major faults with the Map function have rained on Apple’s parade. Another major factor to consider is that Apple would eventually have to stop its reliance on Google Maps as mobile device become more prevalent and geo-location becomes more valuable to technology powerhouse firms.
Source: iPhone In Canda
Photo: iDownload Blog
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