Maps app doesn't work concedes Cook

"At Apple, we strive to make world-class products that deliver the best experience possible for our customers. With the launch of our new Maps last week, we fell short on this commitment," chief executive Tim Cook said in a statement.

"We are extremely sorry for the frustration this has caused and we are doing everything we can to make Maps better," he added.

Apple developed its own mapping program included in its new mobile iOS 6 operating system, and in doing so, booted off Google Maps, which had been the default program for Apple devices.

But the new Apple program immediately drew scorn, for omitting key landmarks and cities, failing to identify correct locations and distorting views from its images. Cook encouraged customers to use alternatives including Google, while Apple works out its bugs.

"The more our customers use our Maps the better it will get and we greatly appreciate all of the feedback we have received," he said.

"While we're improving Maps, you can try alternatives by downloading map apps such as Bing, MapQuest and Waze from the App store, or using Google or Nokia maps by going to their websites and creating an icon on your home screen that links to their Web app."

Although the Maps application does not generate revenue, it often links to searches to keep users in the company's "ecosystem".

Source: AFP via I-NET Bridge