The Android comes with free Google Maps Navigation. iPhone owners will often downplay this feature of Android handsets, but for me it’s the definitive feature that has kept me from using an iPhone handset for my daily needs. Google Maps Navigation is super convenient to have, and I’m looking forward to when Apple releases a similar, competitive product of its own (if they ever will that is). As Apple’s and Google’s relationship dissolves in the smart-phone market, they may be looking to absolve themselves of Google’s services at some point down the road. Mainly their Maps feature.
AppleInsider details that Apple has purchased a company called Poly9, whose main product, Poly9 Globe, is able to generate a 3D map of the Earth, providing users real time information about their virtual location.
AppleInsider reports,
The report claims that Poly9 was purchased “recently” by Apple, though official confirmation has not been given. It was said that the Cupertino, Calif., company asked Poly9 employees to not discuss the matter.
Poly9 still has an office in Quebec, but the report said that it was closed a few weeks ago. The Canadian company has worked with numerous clients in the past, including Apple, as well as Microsoft, Yahoo, MSNBC and NORAD.
As Apple makes their iPhone self aware, I’m looking forward to see how they’ll utilize Poly9’s assets for their own needs.
[via AppleInsider]
