The company is reportedly putting together a team of robotics and data collection experts who will use drones to update map information faster
Apple may be planning on take on Google’s extensive mapping services by using drones. According to a report by Bloomberg, the company is putting together a team of robotics and data collection experts. Sources told the publications that this team will use drones to capture and update its map information faster than its existing fleet of minivans.
As per the report, the company plans to use drones to examine street signs, track changes to roads, monitor areas under construction, and more. This information would then be sent to Apple, who would then update their Maps app and provide users with up-to-date information. Documents obtained by the publication say that Apple filed for exemption by the Federal Aviation Administration to commercially operate drones on September 21 last year. In a response dated March 22, 2016, the FAA granted Apple approval to "operate an unmanned aircraft system to conduct data collection, photography, and videography,"
Further, The report also notes that Apple may also be planning to develop new features for Maps such such as indoor mapping and bring improvements to car navigation.
Follow Us
Shrey Pacheco
Writer, gamer, and hater of public transport. View Full Profile
