Let the mapping wars begin. No, this isn't a new History Channel show about ancient cartographers, but a modern version about to be played out between rivals Apple and Google.
Once allies on the technological mapping front, Apple kicked off WWDC 2012 with the announcement of their own map application for the upcoming iOS 6, giving Google's mapping service the pink slip. Google Maps had been available for the iPhone since 2007.
The announcement comes just days after Google announced several upgrades for Google Maps at an event of their own, including full 3D maps of many major cities. Apple will notably offer this same feature with their mapping service, and have had aircraft traversing the skies above the many of the world's largest cities to make it happen.
Not content to simply copy Google, Apple also unveiled several features which will set Apple Maps apart from its competitor. Firstly is the integration with the newly upgraded Siri for iOS 6, allowing users to get directions without lifting a finger, and even turn-by-turn navigation.
Another major feature is the live traffic information, which will be collected anonymously through other iOS 6 users, which could make all the difference between getting to work or an event on time, and banging your head against the steering wheel while parked in a traffic jam. In addition to traffic, or notable events such as construction will also be displayed.
Apple Maps will also come with Yelp integration for business listings, providing user ratings and reviews for the more than 100 million businesses already integrated in Apple Maps.
The maps announcement wasn't the only salvo of the day fired at Google by Apple, who also announced Facebook (and Yelp) integration with their iOS 6 mobile software, while shunning Google's own social networking service Google+.
The battle for the hearts (and purse strings) of the map viewing public has just begun, and it's shaping up to be an intense battle.
