The Apple Maps app adds Birmingham to its transit list

Did you know Birmingham, Alabama, has been officially added to the list of cities available in the Apple Maps app? This means public transit around the ‘ham just got a whole lot better! Here’s what you should know:

What is Apple Maps?

Apple Maps is Apple’s built-in maps app that provides directions and ETAs for automobile, pedestrian and public transportation. It was first launched during the iOS 9 release. At that time, only seven US cities were included in the list of places to have international transit data. With the addition of Birmingham, Alabama, the list now stands at 57 cities.

How will the update help me?

As a city that is always growing and finding ways to connect residents with each other, the Apple Maps update will help those in the Birmingham area find places, get directions, and discover nearby attractions much easier! It will also make public transportation, like buses and trains, more readily accessible. For example, Birmingham’s MAX Transit buses, which are operated by the Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority, will all feature the new update. When using the app on your personal smartphone, you will also have access to must-know information like public transit schedules and entry and exit points located in public transit stations. This makes traveling much simpler.

What else does the Apple Maps update feature?

The latest update to the Apple Maps app will features lots of helpful, and even just plain cool, elements, including:

• 4 views – regular map, satellite view, hybrid view, and public transit view
• Turn-by-turn navigation with spoken instruction for vehicles, pedestrians, and public transportation
• Real-time traffic information
• Points of interest.
• Flyovers – three-dimensional satellite views
• ETA to help make the most of your time
• Detour traffic routes

How do I update Apple Maps on my iPhone or iPad?

To get the newest version of Apple Maps, you will need to have an operating system of iOS or MacOS or higher. Tap the “Updates” button at the bottom right of the App Store screen. All of your installed apps that have updates available will appear on the screen. If “Maps” is listed, then there is a new version of Apple Maps available. If it is not listed, then you already have the latest version installed.