Apple Maps may get major 'under-the-hood' upgrade

The iOS 8 version of the Maps app will reportedly come with more accurate map data and public transit directions.

Apple plans to make major improvements to the Maps app in iOS 8, a new report claimed on Tuesday.
Apple's top executives, including CEO Tim Cook and Senior Vice Presidents Eddy Cue and Craig Federighi, are currently working on Maps for iOS 8, 9to5Mac reported, citing people who claim to have knowledge of Apple's plans. The executives are focusing less on interface improvements this year and more on enhancements to the application's accuracy and reliability, the report said.

In addition, Apple has added public transit functionality to the app, ensuring that users can find directions when using bus, train, or subway transit. Initially, public transit info will be available only in major cities, but will find its way to other municipalities over time, the report claimed.

Apple's Maps has been the subject of much debate. The application launched in iOS 6 to replace Google Maps. Soon after, however, consumers were displeased with its functionality, discovering that it lacked many of the features and reliability found in Google Maps. Apple quickly apologized, saying it would do better, but the company's app is still behind Google's offering. According to the report, Apple wants to make a big leap to come closer to Google this year.

One other note from the report: Apple's iOS 8 version of Maps will come with more points of interest, making certain locations easier to find.