Apple is working to improve its Maps product for iOS, When iOS 6 launched without Google Maps. Apple would still like users to view its own Maps.
The company has reportedly acquired Embark, a public transit app, to help beef up its offering. Embark had apps for both Android and iOS, but now the Android app has been shut down, while the iOS app remains.
Jessica Lessin broke the news based on discussions with “people knowledgeable about the deal,” and says Apple will directly integrate Embark’s technology into Apple Maps. She also shares the canned statement Apple always gives when asked about acquisitions:
“Apple buys smaller technology companies from time to time, and we generally do not discuss our purpose or plans.”
Apple:
Mapping data: Placebase (2009)
3D mapping: Poly9, C3 Technologies (2010, 2011)
Indoor location: WifiSlam (2013)
Transit data: Locationary, HopStop, Embark (2013)