Apple Maps has launched a new feature aimed at enhancing the travel and dining experience for its users, throwing down the gauntlet to its main competitor, Google Maps. Although Google Maps currently holds a commanding lead in the turn-by-turn navigation app market, Apple is determined to carve out its niche by introducing rankings and expert opinions from revered sources including MICHELIN, Golf Digest, and The Infatuation.
Expertise at Your Fingertips
This latest update transforms the Apple Maps user experience, allowing enthusiasts to discover highly-rated restaurants, hotels, and golf courses with just a few taps. The revamped place cards will showcase “distinctions, descriptions, and images” from trusted experts, enhancing usability and engagement. Travelers looking to reserve a room or grab a bite can now do so directly through Apple Maps, making the app an invaluable tool for those exploring new locales or discovering hidden gems in their own cities. For the golf lovers among us, tee times can soon be booked directly via Supreme Golf—a feature slated for imminent release.
Bringing You the Best
David Dorn, Apple’s Senior Director of Internet Software and Services Product, expressed his excitement about the integration: “MICHELIN Guide, The Infatuation, and Golf Digest are leading industry experts that consumers rely on for finding the best restaurants, hotels, and golf courses. We’re thrilled to incorporate their valuable insights into Apple Maps, making it an even more indispensable resource for our users—whether they’re adventuring close to home or traversing unfamiliar territories.”
That’s right, travelers can now find not just any restaurant, but eateries boasting MICHELIN stars using Apple Maps.
Seamless Integration with The Infatuation and Golf Digest
Paul Needham, CEO of The Infatuation, added, “We are thrilled to soon offer our curated restaurant recommendations on Apple Maps, as we believe it’s essential to meet users where they are. Given that Apple Maps is a key aspect of many people’s daily lives, this integration feels like a perfect match.”
Meanwhile, Golf Digest is also on board, with Meredith Bausback, the publication’s VP of Marketing & Audience Development, noting the significance of their collaboration: “As the leading authority in golf course rankings, we’re proud to share our trusted insights via Apple Maps. Golfers can easily identify the courses they’d love to play, thanks to Golf Digest’s ratings.”
Getting Started
Starting this week, Apple Maps users can easily navigate to expert recommendations. Simply open Apple Maps and type “MICHELIN Guide,” “The Infatuation,” or “Golf Digest” in the search field for a curated list of the best restaurants or golf courses.
While it might not immediately lure die-hard Google Maps users, this exciting new feature could encourage others to give Apple Maps a try. Bonus points for the golfers out there—it’s a fantastic opportunity to discover courses that you’ve always wanted to play!
Questions & Answers
What new features can users expect on Apple Maps?
Users will now find expert rankings and recommendations from MICHELIN, Golf Digest, and The Infatuation for restaurants, hotels, and golf courses, enhancing their travel experience.
How can users book reservations through Apple Maps?
Users can book hotel rooms and restaurant reservations directly through Apple Maps, as well as reserve tee times with Supreme Golf, making it a comprehensive travel companion.
Will this update change users’ preferences between Apple Maps and Google Maps?
While it’s uncertain if this feature will sway dedicated Google Maps users, it offers an enticing reason for others to explore Apple Maps, especially for golf enthusiasts eager to discover new courses.
