Apple's iOS 8 to include improved Maps app

(Photo: Apple Maps)Apple devices display screenshots from the Apple Maps app.

Apple's next major operating system, iOS 8, is expected to include improvements to the iOS Maps experience, according to a report.

Looking past the recent rollout of Apple's iOS 7.1 upgrade, the next version of the maps app will move meet the "incredibly high standard" of Apple's customers, 9to5Mac reported this week citing unnamed sources briefed on the plans.

Apple watchers expect the next version of iOS to launch later this year, most probably during the WWDC conference in summer.

The new version of maps is expected to improve the Map app's data and interface so it is more reliable. Users strongly criticized Apple's previous Maps app efforts.

It will be upgraded with enhanced data, thanks to engineering work and acquisitions by companies such as BroadMap, Embark, and HopStop, the report states.

Other changes will include new points of interests and new labels to make places such as airports, parks, train stations, bus stops, highways, and freeways easier to find, sources told 9to5Mac.

Public transit will be deeply integrated in the new application with public transportation directions included. It will include access to train, subway and bus data as well as enhanced directions to major airports.

Initially, functionality for public transport directions will be available for major cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. Expanded access to other U.S. cities will follow. Other countries around the world may also get access, the report states.

A separate report in January from 9to5mac said the new iOS will also include a Healthbook app, as Apple looks to serve users' fitness needs.

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