Apple and Ford have announced that Apple Maps will be integrated directly into Ford’s future “Universal Electric Vehicle Platform” starting in 2027. This is made possible by a new “MapKit for Automotive” SDK. The navigation appears directly on the vehicle displays and is intended to offer the familiar functions of the map solution, including naturally formulated instructions, display of real-time traffic, fault reports, search with detailed location maps and route options. Intelligent EV routing and battery preconditioning are also available specifically for electric cars. This is a major innovation, as previously Apple Maps could only be used in the car if an iPhone was connected via CarPlay. MapKit SDK – and freedom in implementation
With the new MapKit SDK, Apple is providing a solution with which car manufacturers will soon be able to integrate Apple Maps directly into their own infotainment system. Ford – and possibly other partners – do not have to adopt Apple’s entire interface, but can implement Apple maps, search, routing and map data according to their own ideas. Apple specifically mentions allowing car manufacturers to embed and customize Apple Maps so that the navigation fits the vehicle visually and functionally.
Not a replacement for CarPlay
CarPlay will continue to be available for Ford vehicles, the announcement says. The strategy is still interesting because it makes Maps a licensed product for other manufacturers for the first time. The previous connection to the iPhone is no longer necessary, which significantly expands the potential target group. If the upcoming advertising offer were to take effect internationally at some point, that would be doubly interesting. “Sponsored Results” for search terms like “restaurant” or “supermarket” would also be suitable for the car version of Apple Maps – and Apple could provide even more reach. Location details and map activity are not transmitted to the vehicle provider, emphasizes Apple. The same data protection principles apply as usual.
