This new Apple Maps feature set to give tough competition to Google Maps

Apple Maps' new feature will bring navigation for ebikes. Here’s how it will be different from Google Maps.

Apple Maps' new feature will make travel easy for e-bikers. (YouTube)

Apple Maps was released back in 2012 and since then iPhone users have come to depend on it in a major way even though there is the option of Google Maps available at all times. Apple Maps comes as a default option for iPhone users, but then there are many Google Maps fans who just can't do without it. The competition is intense as both are humongous corporate behemoths and neither wants to be left behind. However, both maps serve their purpose with some minor changes that make these navigation apps slightly different from each other. To match what the competition offers and perhaps, even steal a march on it, Apple Maps is now coming up with a new feature and no, it does not deal with cars. We are talking about e-bikes whose popularity has exploded in recent years.

Google Maps offers several bike-friendly routes as well as support for e-bikes. But now, iPhone users will soon be able to have navigation for e-bikes too! iOS developer and journalist Steve Moser has revealed that he had found some references in the Apple Maps code, which suggests that it might offer navigation for e-bikes soon. He spotted a bunch of coding lines suggesting the phrase 'e-Bike' as well as a feature that may optimise routes and Estimated Time of Arrival (ETAs) for users.

However, when this feature will go live on Apple Maps has not been revealed. Also, exactly what the difference between the navigation of the route for regular bicycles and e-bikes will be is not clear. A Tom's Guide report suggests that e-bike directions may avoid the unpaved paths.

If this e-bike feature makes its way into Apple Maps, then Apple may get an edge over Google Maps which lacks the routes optimization for e-bikes in comparison to regular bicycles. However, Google does help users to show the places from where they can rent an E-Bike, offering price and range estimates, in addition to the information on journey time and even the ETA.