Apple Maps might finally be getting a lot better

Ever since it was launched in 2012, Apple Maps has been a bit lost.

From its buggy navigation mode to its warped topography, it became the biggest embarrassment in the Californian tech company's multi-billion dollar empire. But a serious update could soon be cresting the iOS horizon.

According to developer chatter picked up by Apple rumour site 9to5mac, the fault-filled map service is set to receive a major update with the arrival of this year's iOS 9 - with the debut of a Transit navigation service that was due to arrive last year.

The Transit system will bring improved, accurate public transport information to Apple Maps, allowing users to navigate bus, train and underground information when searching for directions - much like Google's current map offering. Apple apparently pulled the Transit feature from last year's iOS 8 update, given a lack of sufficient data for many major Western cities. There's still no word on which areas will feature up-to-the-minute transport data, but you might want to keep a copy of the local bus timetable in your browser, just in case.

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The Apple Map update is expected to be announced at this year's Worldwide Developers Conference, along with details for an indoor mapping project that will see small autonomous robots collect images and floor layouts from major landmarks and tourist attractions.

So, there could finally be a reason to use that un-deletable app you've hidden away in a folder at the back of your home screen. Until you realise you prefer the Google Maps layout anyway.

[Via: 9to5Mac]