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Will Apple Abandon Google Maps with iOS 5?

Will Apple start debut its own mapping technology with iOS 5? It's not likely, 9to5Google reports.

May 28, 2011

Will Apple debut its own mapping technology with iOS 5? It's not likely, 9to5Google reports.

Apple will unveil its updated mobile operating system at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), which kicks off on June 6 in Cupertino. Considering Apple has snapped up two mapping companies (Poly9 and Placebase) in recent years here has been speculation that Apple would eventually abandon Google Maps and replace it with Apple-made mapping technology.

But it seems that time has not yet come. 9to5Google says that "although Apple is working to improve the iOS Maps application, iOS 5 will not bring an Apple developed maps service and Google Maps is still in."

But iOS 5 will undoubtedly feature some new goodies. MacRumors says that with iOS 5 Apple will "roll out a completely revamped notifications system and widgets that would presumably provide access to information without the need for launching dedicated apps, much the same as Dashboard widgets in Mac OS X."

Other rumors have indicated that iOS 5 could have a focus on cloud-based applications and support, which would include a "locker" for storing music, video, and photos. It could also debut a person-finding feature for tracking friends and family.

Despite 9to5Google's claim that Apple is sticking with Google Maps as its backend Map technology, a last month caused by something called MKUserLocationBreadCrumb, the API of which is related to iOS maps and location features. The report suggested Apple had at least made some changes to its map-based apps in iOS 5.

Apple might debut iOS 5 at WWDC, but the verdict is still out as to whether or not the company will unveil the iPhone 5. Earlier this month, reportedly confirmed to a customer that the next-generation smartphone won't appear in June or July.