Apple has been continually updating and adding new features to maps, including 3D views, the Flyover feature and tools to help customers find convenient places to shop, eat and explore nearby areas. (Reuters)
Apple on Thursday announced the opening of a new office in Hyderabad that will focus on development of maps for its range of products, including iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch. This investment will accelerate the development of mapping services and create up to 4,000 jobs.
“Apple is focused on making the best products and services in the world and we are thrilled to open this new office in Hyderabad which will focus on maps development,” said a statement from Apple CEO Tim Cook.
“The talent here in the local area is incredible and we are looking forward to expanding our relationships and introducing more universities and partners to our platforms as we scale our operations,” he added.
The company did not disclose any investment details. However, senior government officials have pegged an approximate phased investment of $25 million. “Apple plans to invest $25 million in a phased manner to set up the centre which is expected to be operational by June this year,” an official said.
Apple has been continually updating and adding new features to maps, including 3D views, the Flyover feature and tools to help customers find convenient places to shop, eat and explore nearby areas. With iOS 9 Apple added Transit, offering a combination of trains, subways, buses and walking, which is already available for more than 300 cities around the world.
“We are honoured Apple chose Hyderabad as a home for its Maps development office,” said Telangana chief minister Kalvakuntla Chandrashekar Rao. “This will create thousands of jobs here and is a testament to our proactive approach, quality infrastructure and the excellent talent base we have in the region.”