Reports claim that Apple Inc is in early discussions with Foursquare Labs Inc to integrate local data into the Apple’s mapping solution as a step to improve the seriously ailing mapping application.
Apple launched its own mapping service back in September by substituting Google Maps. But mobile users started complaining issues on its newly launched maps. Waze CEO Naom Bardin stated that Apple was coming with the weakest data set, so it may not give an optimal route when you search a location. Later, Apple apologized for the problems with Apple Maps suggesting that to try alternatives for some time while they are improving the Maps by downloading Map apps from the App Store like Bing, MapQuest and Waze, or use Google or Nokia Maps by going to their websites and creating an icon on your home screen to their web app.
If you have no knowledge about Foursquare, you can note that it is a popular mobile app that can find great places based on where you and your friend have been by “checking-in”. The app also has a number of business listings, user-generated tips and rankings. It can also be worked as a search engine, so you can search information by typing on this engine. Recently updated, the app also allow to find more information about ratings, contact number, menu and hours.
This discussion with Foursquare for improving data is the latest sign of Apple’s plans to build more data and tightly integrate local services into the iPhone and iPad so as to compete with Google Inc. Apple already has a deal with Yelp Inc, and others for integrating local data and they collected more than 100 billion business listings.
Source: Wall Street Journal Via: PhoneArena