Just days after releasing iOS 6.1 to the public, Apple has released iOS 6.1.1 beta 1 to developers for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. The download is available via Apple’s developer center for registered developers. This beta, according to Apple, has major enhancements to Maps for Japan:
iOS 6.1.1 beta 1 includes the following improvements to Maps for Japan:
- Improved pronunciation of roads during turn-by-turn navigation
- Optimized directions to more strongly prefer highways over narrower roads
- Now indicates upcoming toll roads during turn-by-turn navigation
- Added labels for junctions, interchanges, on-ramps, off-ramps, and intersections
- Added indicators for transit station buildings, subway lines, and traffic lights
- Updated freeway color to green
- Updated icons for some location categories including fire stations, hospitals, and post offices
- Added 3D buildings including Tokyo Station, Japan Imperial Palace, and Tokyo Tower
It also seems that this beta has no expiration date, unlike previous iOS betas:
[tweet https://twitter.com/iH8sn0w/status/299231442607685632]
[tweet https://twitter.com/iH8sn0w/status/299231598904229889]
Enhancements to Japan in iOS 6 Maps is a major move for Apple, a company that is working to break into Asian markets. Interestingly, Japanese was the first language (besides the original English, French, and German dialects) to support iOS’s Siri. Let us know if you spot anything else new. Thanks, D!
