Apple to allow default navigation apps on iPhone (EU only)

Image: Apple

Android users have long enjoyed the flexibility of setting default apps, while iOS users have faced limitations. However, Apple is making a user-centric shift. Starting next year, iPhone users in the European Union can choose their preferred navigation app, like Google Maps, instead of solely relying on Apple Maps.

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Apple Maps brings detailed 3D buildings, enhanced navigation to Canada

Apple has finally brought its Apple Maps experience to Canada. It offers detailed 3D buildings and improved navigation in select areas, including Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. Apple proudly claims it has built the map experience "from the ground up." You can expect detailed road markings, land cover, trees, elevation, public transit routes, etc. There's even a new windshield view for drivers and immersive walking directions in augmented reality.

Some of the detailed Canadian landmarks include the Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal and Robson Square in Vancouver. The update is rolling out to users with iOS 15, macOS Monterey, and watchOS 8.

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iOS 14.5 introduces Waze-like features to Apple Maps

It's widely known that Apple Maps is lagging behind its competition. But the company is working on bringing it up to par with what Google offers with its Maps and Waze apps. With the beta 4 release of iOS 14.5, Apple Maps gets Waze-like crowdsourcing features so you can report accidents, speed checks, and hazards along the way. There's a new Report button in the app that you can access through your iPhone or CarPlay.

While not related to the beta release, Apple Maps has also rolled out in the US a way to look for COVID-19 vaccination sites in the country. Apple users in the US can search "COVID-19 vaccines" on Maps or ask Siri, "Where can I get a COVID-19 vaccination?" Both features use data from VaccineFinder.

iOS 14 can turn your iPhone into a car key

iOS 14 offers a lot of new features for users to take advantage of, but we haven't mentioned the automotive and mobility features the mobile platform offers. Apple is also improving Apple Maps and CarPlay experience with this new version of its operating system.

One of the more notable additions is turning your iPhone into your car's key with the aptly named Car Key. The feature is coming in the fall, with support for iOS 13 as well. It'll first work with the new 2021 BMW 5-Series, with other vehicles and automakers expected to support the feature next year. 

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