Apple has added new hiking features to their Maps app on iOS 18, just months after declaring AllTrails the iPhone App of the Year. Users in the U.S. can now access and save thousands of hikes in all 63 national parks, as well as create and save their own custom walking routes. These features also include topographic maps on the iPhone, previously only available on the Apple Watch. While these features are mostly limited to the U.S., topographic maps are also available in Japan. iOS 18 is currently in beta and will be released in September.
Background:
Apple Maps has been steadily gaining ground as a reliable navigation app, particularly for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. In recent years, the app has introduced features such as 3D mapping, turn-by-turn directions, and offline maps to enhance its user experience.
New Hiking Features in iOS 18:
With the release of iOS 18, Apple Maps is taking its hiking capabilities to the next level. The app now includes the following hiking-specific features:
Availability:
The new hiking features in Apple Maps are available in iOS 18, which is currently in beta. The stable version is expected to be released in September 2023. Topographic maps are also available in Japan.
Additional Details:
1. When will the new hiking features be available? A: The features are available in the iOS 18 beta and will be released with the stable version in September 2023.
2. Are the hiking features only available in national parks? A: No, users can also access hikes in other locations and create their own custom routes.
3. Do the hiking features require an internet connection? A: Offline maps are available for download, allowing users to access hiking information without an internet connection.
4. What type of topographic maps are provided? A: Apple Maps provides 2D and 3D topographic maps, showing terrain features such as elevation contours and slopes.
5. Can I share my custom hiking routes with others? A: Yes, users can share their custom routes with other Apple Maps users using iCloud or other sharing methods.
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