We launched Maps initially with the first version of iOS. As time progressed, we wanted to provide our customers with even better Maps including features such as turn-by-turn directions, voice integration, Flyover and vector-based maps. In order to do this, we had to create a new version of Maps from the ground up.
This reads as if these features were not possible with the relationship that Apple had with Google. But, this is only one side of the story so I take this with a small grain of salt. Could be true, though.
While we’re improving Maps, you can try alternatives by downloading map apps from the App Storelike Bing, MapQuest and Waze, or use Google or Nokia maps by going to their websites andcreating an iconon your home screen to their web app.
The fact that he openly suggests to use alternatives while Maps gets better is interesting. Obviously Maps are very, very important to some people so perhaps this is his way of acknowledging that. Or, he knows that Apple Maps will prove to be so much better than these alternatives that he is confident in suggesting them.
I hope Maps improves very, very quickly. Not year-over-year. But, perhaps, every single day.