Apple buys location startups HopStop and Locationary to battle Google

July 22nd, 2013, 23:48 Posted By: wraggster

Double takeover to improve its much criticised Maps service.
Apple Maps has suffered numerous bugs and faults since its release, with some even resulting in a rare apology from Apple's CEO Tim Cook.
However, the tech giant is striving to improve its mapping services and deliver a worthy Google Maps rival, something that was initially expected from the iPhone 5 - Apple's first device to come with an own-branded and non-Google map app.
Canada-based Locationary originally listed five obstacles Apple faced with its navigation platform and ten months later Apple has picked up the crowd-sourced location data company for its 'knowledge'.
Even though it has become rather apparent why it decided to take on Locationary, Steven Dowling, a spokesperson from Apple, said: "Apple buys smaller technology companies from time to time, and we generally do not discuss our purpose or plans."
Apple followed the Locationary takeover by acquiring transit navigation app maker HopStop. The startup specialises in mass transit directions including walking, cycling, public transport and even taxi to offer real-time updates on the state of transport and traffic - the only option not supported is for users driving themselves.
Once again, something that Apple Maps did not offer.
Funnily enough, Kristin Huguet, spokes woman for Apple, said exactly the same as her colleague Dowling - word for word.
It doesn't take much to say that it is doing all it can to improve its services with the help of some experts in that particular sector - alas…
...pride takes lead.
At least we are in the knowledge that its mapping services will now hopefully be improved.

http://www.mobile-ent.biz/news/read/...-google/021948

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