Apple’s CEO Tim Cook recently apologized for Apple Maps, which has come under quite a bit of criticism since it was launched with iOS 6. He also announced that Apple would be working hard to improve the service.
According to MacRumors, one of the ways Apple is looking to improve Apple Maps in iOS 6 is to use select retail employees in different store locations. Apparently, participating stores will dedicate 40 hours of staff time per week.
The employees will manually examine Apple mapping data in their area and then submit corrections and improvements directly to Apple, in an attempt to improve their Maps App.
Of course, this has not been confirmed by Apple, but it would make sense for Apple to use retail employees, as they have over 400 stores and nearly 40,000 employees, so they could provide some valuable feedback to Apple on iOS 6 Maps.
Challenges Faced by Apple Maps
Apple Maps faced numerous challenges upon its release, including inaccurate location data, missing landmarks, and poor navigation instructions. Users reported being directed to incorrect addresses, and some even found themselves in potentially dangerous situations due to faulty directions. This led to widespread frustration and criticism from both users and the media. The backlash was significant enough that Tim Cook issued a public apology, a rare move for the tech giant.
The decision to involve retail employees in the improvement process is a strategic one. These employees are spread across various geographic locations, providing a diverse range of data points. By leveraging their local knowledge, Apple aims to correct errors more efficiently and enhance the overall user experience.
Steps Towards Improvement
In addition to utilizing retail employees, Apple has been exploring other avenues to improve Apple Maps. The company has been investing heavily in acquiring mapping technology and talent. For instance, Apple acquired several mapping companies, including C3 Technologies, known for its advanced 3D mapping capabilities. These acquisitions are part of Apple’s broader strategy to build a more robust and reliable mapping service.
Moreover, Apple has been working on integrating real-time data into Apple Maps. This includes traffic updates, public transportation information, and even user-generated content. By incorporating real-time data, Apple aims to provide more accurate and timely information to its users. This is particularly important for navigation and route planning, where up-to-date information can make a significant difference.
Another area of focus for Apple has been improving the user interface and experience. The company has been gathering user feedback to identify pain points and areas for improvement. This feedback is then used to make iterative updates to the app, ensuring that it meets the needs and expectations of its users.
Apple has also been collaborating with third-party developers to enhance the functionality of Apple Maps. By opening up its platform to developers, Apple allows for the creation of specialized apps and services that can be integrated into Apple Maps. This not only adds value to the app but also fosters innovation within the developer community.
In conclusion, while Apple Maps had a rocky start, the company is taking significant steps to address the issues and improve the service. By involving retail employees, investing in technology, and focusing on user feedback, Apple is committed to making Apple Maps a reliable and user-friendly navigation tool. The journey to improvement may be ongoing, but these efforts demonstrate Apple’s dedication to providing a high-quality mapping service for its users.
Source MacRumors
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