It may not save the iOS 6 Maps app, but at this point, it couldn’t hurt.
Per the Wall Street Journal, Apple is reportedly in preliminary talks with Foursquare to integrate some of the location-based social network’s date into iOS Maps, with the move purportedly in response to offerings from rival services like Google Maps.
Anonymous sources have stated Apple is looking to use local data provided by Foursquare Labs in a bid to enhance the iOS Maps app.
The sources say Apple Senior Vice President of Online Services Eddy Cue met with the popular social service “in recent weeks,” but failed to detail exactly what was discussed or when the meetings took place.
Although only speculation, Foursquare could provide Apple with a number of business listings, relative popularity and user-generated tips to help enhance the iOS Maps experience. Integration with the social service may also allow iPhone and iPad users to “check in” at various locations, letting friends know where they are around town. Currently, iOS limits such location-based discovery features to Apple’s Find My Friends and Foursquare’s app.
It was reported in June that Apple was working to integrate Yelp reviews and listings, a feature that has already made its way to the Maps app.
Since its release with iOS 6, Apple’s mapping solution has been criticized for its lack of features, most noticeable when compared to Google’s established service which once powered the iOS app, as well as incorrect location information and a number of glitches.
Cue is said to be “racing” to improve Maps after taking control of the project when former iOS chief Scott Forstall was ousted from the company in October.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.