It’s been long rumoured that Apple would refresh its Maps app in iOS 6, removing Google as the content provider and replacing it with data obtained by technology and organizations the company acquired over the last four years.
BGR has obtained a screenshot of the new interface, and it looks to confirm exactly what was rumoured: 3D is coming to Maps. One of Apple’s main acquisitions over the last few years was a company called C3 Technologies, which pioneered high-performance photo-realistic 3D mapping on a 2D screen. As you can see from the shot, it’s quite a bit like Google Earth or Street View, but looks to be from a higher and more remote vantage point.
The interface is also to receive a refresh, with a permanent bar at the bottom left for locating you on a map, and for turning off and on 3D mode. According to the source, these features will be introduced in iOS 6 at WWDC next month. The metallic silver look of the app also looks to be an indication that Apple is making some colour changes to the iPhone interface, too.
Source: BGR
