After iOS6 Maps fiasco, Apple features competitors' maps in App Store

After getting much flak over the glitch-filled Maps app in its new iOS 6 operating system, Apple Inc. is encouraging users to use alternatives via a new section in its App Store.

 

The "featured" section in the App Store now includes alternative mapping apps for iPhones and iPads, tech site CNET reported.

 

CNET said the list so far includes:

 

 

But CNET said the list may differ by country, with Apple pushing Canadian and North American versions of apps from Navigon, Garmin and Sygic in Canada.

 

In the UK, it said Apple is pushing localized apps from Microsoft, Skobbler and AA Satnav.

 

Earlier, Apple CEO Tim Cook apologized to users of iOS 6 for Apple's in-house Maps.

 

Cook was quoted as suggesting using alternatives such as Web-based service from competitors, including Google, Microsoft and Nokia.

 

Apple ditched Google Maps for its own Maps app, which was pre-installed on more than 400 million iOS devices. — TJD, GMA News