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Comment by jpdoctor | Hacker News Reader

iOS 5 user here: What is the state of maps in the new release? [Luddite attitude, but it's the #1 reason for my phone, more than text/mail of any variety.]

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Maps are fine, searching still isn't as good as google. However, since google maps is available as a separate app now, that is better than iOS5 maps, there's no reason to not upgrade.

Yeah, maps are seeing constant updates. I recently noticed that the area I live is now in 3D. Also I've noticed directions get fewer and fewer erros, so I'm pretty impressed how much it has improved despite there being no fanfare about it. No reason not to upgrade these days.

Google Maps was made available about a week after the iOS 6 update.

It's better than the one that was native to iOS 5.

> It's better than the one that was native to iOS 5.

I'd be curious as to the details: How so exactly? (I see friends copying and pasting to google maps from mail/txt app? which leaves me nonplussed.)

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/google-maps/id585027354?mt=8

Turn by turn directions.

It is highly dependent on the location. In Tokyo, Google Maps was much better. In Australia, Apple Maps is better in the cities and worse in country areas. And apparently around California, Apple Maps might be better.

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2416321,00.asp

So long story short it is likely you will have a few map apps on your phone.

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