A Path to Better Maps: Apple Buys Data Mapping Startup Locationary The tech giant acquires the Toronto-based data-mapping startup in an apparent effort to beef up its Maps app.

By Jason Fell Jul 19, 2013

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Sometimes in business when you make a mistake, you say you're sorry and then right the wrong. It appears that's part of what Apple is doing with its acquisition of Toronto-based data-mapping startup Locationary. The news was confirmed by AllThingsD.

It's no secret that Apple has had difficulty with its Maps app for iPhones and iPads. Last year, when Apple stopped using Google Maps data and started using its own, customers complained that the quality of the information had plummeted. Chief Executive Tim Cook issued an apology to customers, saying the company fell short on its commitment to deliver the best possible product experience to customers.

Now, enter Locationary. It has a service called Saturn that collects user-submitted data to keep tabs on local businesses, tracking information like hours of operation and products and services offered. Apple hasn't disclosed details about how it will use Locationary to beef up its own Maps app.

Last week, Google updated its Google Maps app and made it available on iPhones and iPads. The redesign includes a number of useful features that improve the app's search and navigation.

For more, see the report on AllThingsD.

Jason Fell

VP, Native Content

Jason Fell is the VP of Native Content, managing the Entrepreneur Partner Studio, which creates dynamic and compelling content for our partners. He previously served as Entrepreneur.com's managing editor and as the technology editor prior to that.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Most Popular

See all

Health & Wellness

Become Unrecognizable By the End of Summer With These 6 Habits

Summer is often a time of rest, relaxation and socializing. But, summer can also be a time for improving and living our best lives. Follow these six healthy habits and you're bound to make this summer one you'll never forget.

By Amy M Chambers

Starting a Business

How to Find the Right Programmers: A Brief Guideline for Startup Founders

For startup founders under a plethora of challenges like timing, investors and changing market demand, it is extremely hard to hire programmers who can deliver.

By Vasily Voropaev

Marketing

I Wish I Knew This About Google Before Trying My Growth Strategy

Smart digital marketers love to sharpen their pencils while optimizing ad campaigns. But, as you will learn in this article, there is such a thing as over-sharpening your pencil to the point it breaks when you press on it, putting the entire campaign into a death spiral.

By George Deeb