Apple has added a series of new features to its Maps service including animated 3D imagery for certain global landmarks. Starting with the UK, it now shows the correct time on Big Ben and even shows a spinning London Eye when users take advantage of its 3F Flyover facility.
The company has added a number of locations to its Flyover feature. The service features high-res images of a number of world-famous hotspots in cities from across the US, South America and Europe. It also added data providers such as GasBuddy and GreatSchools to Maps and opened up the Maps Connect feature to various new countries and languages whilst inviting companies to submit their contact details and other info.
The new service could mark a turnaround for Apple Maps, which has experienced a troubled launch. Apple boss Tim Cook even issued an apology after the service was criticized, but his company have made attempts to win the public over and draw attention away from Google’s service. The team at Apple have made significant efforts to enhance the service’s accuracy, whilst Apple-leased minivans have been seen navigating US cities recently, which suggests that the company may be ready to compete with Google Street View.