What’s new in MapKit?
Asked on 06/12/2025
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In the recent WWDC sessions, several new features and updates were introduced for MapKit:
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MapKit on watchOS 26: For the first time, MapKit is available on watchOS, allowing users to get directions directly on their Apple Watch. Over 20 MapKit APIs have been introduced to the Apple Watch, enabling features like searching for nearby points of interest, getting routes using different transport types (driving, walking, cycling), and displaying routes as overlays on a map using SwiftUI. This is particularly beneficial for independent watch apps that want to provide location-based services (What’s new in watchOS 26).
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MapKit and MapKit JS Enhancements: The sessions highlighted updates to both MapKit and MapKit JS, including the introduction of Place Descriptor, which allows developers to find and reference places more effectively. Geocoding capabilities have been enhanced, and the Lookaround feature, which provides 360-degree interactive street-level imagery, is now available in MapKit JS. Cycling directions have also been added, providing routes that take advantage of paths and trails suitable for bikes (Go further with MapKit).
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Place Cards and Identifiers: New APIs allow for the display of detailed place information through place cards, which can be used even if an app or website doesn't feature a map view. Place identifiers have been introduced to reference places uniquely, ensuring that apps can display up-to-date information as the Maps team updates data (Unlock the power of places with MapKit).
These updates make it easier for developers to integrate rich map data and location-based features into their apps across different Apple platforms.
What’s new in watchOS 26
Discover the new features in watchOS 26 and learn how to integrate them into your watchOS and iOS apps. Explore the ARM64 architecture, and dive into the new design system. We’ll also share updates for widgets and insights on how to bring controls to Apple Watch.
Go further with MapKit
Discover the latest updates to MapKit and MapKit JS. We’ll introduce a new type of directions — cycling — and show you how to enable 3D Look Around imagery on the web. Learn how the new Geocoding API supports conversion between coordinates and addresses, and how to use the Address Representations API to get the most appropriate address for a region. Then we’ll wrap it up with a new way of referencing places that ensures your app will work seamlessly with App Intents.
Unlock the power of places with MapKit
Discover powerful new ways to integrate maps into your apps and websites with MapKit and MapKit JS. Learn how to save and reference unique places using Place ID. Check out improvements to search that make it more efficient to find relevant places. Get introduced to the new Place Card API that lets you display rich information about places so customers can explore destinations right in your app. And, we’ll show you quick ways to embed maps in your website with our simplified token provisioning and Web Embed API.