Since I use both an iPhone and a Mac every day, Apple Maps has quietly become one of my most-used apps. Whether I’m checking traffic before heading out or finding a new coffee spot, it's my default tool for getting around. Honestly, I didn’t realize how often I relied on it until I had to reflect on it for this review.
Everyday Usability
Apple Maps is super easy to use. On my iPhone, it opens with my current location and suggestions for nearby places like restaurants, gas stations, and stores. The search bar sits at the bottom of the screen, which is great for one-handed use when I’m on the move.
One of my favorite features is the ability to send directions from my Mac to my iPhone. If I’m planning ahead or just checking traffic at home, I can map out the route on my Mac and instantly send it to my phone. That seamless Apple-to-Apple experience really shines here.
Clean, Intuitive Design
The app is exactly what you’d expect from Apple: clean, minimal, and easy to read. I like how it automatically switches between light and dark modes, which makes driving at night much easier on the eyes. Turn-by-turn directions are clear and include lane guidance, which has saved me more than once on unfamiliar highways.
Standout Features
One feature I really enjoy is Look Around, which is Apple’s version of Street View. It’s not available everywhere yet, but when it is, it feels incredibly smooth and modern. I also appreciate the 3D map view for getting a better sense of buildings and layout in a new area.
It covers all the basics: driving, walking, biking, and public transit directions. Live traffic updates and alternate route suggestions have helped me avoid some serious gridlock. I also love how it syncs with Siri, my calendar, and even my Apple Watch. If I have a meeting with a location saved, Apple Maps will suggest when to leave based on real-time traffic.
Real-Time Info at a Glance
Another feature I use regularly is location search, like gas stations, ATMs, or restaurants. The map populates with useful nearby spots, star ratings, and estimated drive times.
It’s clean and responsive, showing just what I need without overwhelming the screen.
Suggestions for Improvement
Even though Apple Maps has come a long way, there are a few areas I’d love to see improved:
Offline Maps: It’d be great to download maps ahead of time like you can with Google Maps, especially when traveling through areas with poor service.
Business Listings: I’ve come across a few places listed as open when they weren’t. If users could easily suggest updates, this could improve quickly.
Expand “Look Around”: It’s a great feature, but only available in a handful of cities. I’d love to see it in smaller towns, too.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Apple Maps does what I need it to do, and then some. It’s clean, reliable, and integrates perfectly across all my Apple devices. While it still has some room to grow, especially with offline support and business info, it’s my go-to app for navigation. For anyone who lives in the Apple ecosystem, it’s definitely worth using.
Reference
Apple Inc. (2025). Apple Maps (Version IOS 18.5) [Mobile app]. App Store. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/apple-maps/id915056765
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