Tim Cook Apologizes for Problems with Apple Maps

Apple Maps was released last week to a great deal of criticism. The new GPS and mapping application was introduced with iOS 6 as a way for Apple to host its own unique mapping service. However, now that the application is showing some serious inaccuracies, consumers are questioning Apple's decision to replace Google Maps.

In light of the enormous uproar from consumers and critics alike Tim Cook has drafted a letter on Apple's website to address the problem; Apple's CEO writes:

"At Apple, we strive to make world-class products that deliver the best experience possible to our customers. With the launch of our new Maps last week, we fell short on this commitment. We are extremely sorry for the frustration this has caused our customers and we are doing everything we can to make Maps better.

"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."

Long-time Apple users are likely surprised to see this company take such a humble approach, actually admitting and apologizing for the problems that Apple Maps currently exhibits. Many have been quick to point out that's probably not how the late Steve Jobs would have handled the situation.

Obviously, it is good to hear that Apple is working to fix its mapping application, but the companies' justification for ditching Google Maps seems a bit insincere. Tim stated that Apple Maps was a product of Apple wanting to do more with a mapping application, and while features like flyover are new, the majority of the features he described are available on Android, and could have been achieved through Google Maps.

Perhaps even more surprising though is Tim's openness to direct consumers to alternative mapping applications instead of using Apple's. From his letter:

"While we're improving Maps, you can try alternatives by downloading map apps from the App Store like Bing, MapQuest and Waze, or use Google or Nokia maps by going to their websites and creating an icon on your home screen to their web app."

However, Cook is also adamant that for Apple Maps to improve quickly and efficiently, or at least as quickly and efficiently as possible it will require the help of its user base. He writes:

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