The cool new Apple Maps features you're not using, but should be

03.10.2023 - 16:33 / thepointsguy.com

Along with the recent release of the iPhone 15 and iOS 17, Apple unveiled a bevy of new features for the iPhone and the Apple Watch that make these devices even more powerful for travelers. Many of those new features come via the Apple Maps service.

Let's take a look at the new ways in which Apple Maps can help you explore the world.

This is far and away the most useful new feature for travelers, especially those who are visiting regions that might not have the best internet connectivity. Whether you are camping in the remote wilderness or simply want to avoid data overages and roaming charges when traveling internationally, Apple Maps' new offline maps feature will ensure you have access to driving, walking, public transit and cycling directions even when your internet connection is spotty.

To use offline maps, you'll need to download a map of the area you are visiting while you have Wi-Fi or cellular data connectivity. Simply search for your destination in Apple Maps and you will see an option to download an offline map of the area. Apple Maps will suggest an area to download, but you can customize it to make it larger or smaller. You'll also be able to see how much storage space the map will take up on your phone.

If your device anticipates that you have an upcoming trip planned or if it expects you may need an offline map due to service availability in a certain area, Apple Maps can even prompt you to download an offline map so you don't get stuck without the travel information you need.

Your offline map will have much of the same information you'll find in regular Apple Maps, including:

This information, including transit schedules, will be accurate as of the time you download your offline map. In order to get the most current details, you will need to connect to Wi-Fi or cellular data. In your offline map settings, you can choose whether to have offline maps update automatically when you are connected to Wi-Fi and/or cellular data.

You can try it out now and get familiar with how it works by downloading a map of your local area or for your next travel destination.

As electronic vehicles become more widely available — both on car lots and at car rental facilities — it's more important than ever to have accurate and up-to-date information on where to find EV charging stations.

Related: From 'fart mode' to battery woes: 5 things I learned from my first Tesla rental

Apple Maps can now display real-time EV charging station availability, including the availability to filter by charging network, plug type, hours of operation and more. You can even designate your preferred charging network.

This feature is especially helpful if you are driving an EV in an unfamiliar area and need to charge your car