With iOS 26, Apple is not only bringing a redesigned design but also new features to many standard apps. Apple Maps is seeing a lot of changes, in particular. The app is getting several new features designed to help you in your everyday life – for example, navigating to work or finding places you've visited. Everything runs directly on the device and is also designed to protect your privacy. Here's an overview of all the new features in Apple Maps in iOS 26.
Apple Maps has made significant progress in recent years. With iOS 26, Apple is taking it up a notch. This time, the focus is on features that adapt to your daily routine. Maps recognizes the routes you regularly take and automatically saves the places you've visited. Combined with a fresh design and new widgets, Apple Maps aims to become a more personalized companion—without you having to constantly configure things yourself.
New design through Liquid Glass
iOS 26 brings a new, system-wide design called Liquid Glass. This also applies to Apple Maps. All controls and buttons appear more modern and transparent. It's not just about the look – the entire user interface appears cleaner and clearer. This makes it a bit more intuitive to use, especially on newer devices.
Preferred routes: Maps recognizes your habits
One of the most important new features is "Preferred Routes." With iOS 26, Apple Maps learns which routes you regularly take—for example, to work, school, or other frequently visited places. These routes are automatically recognized and saved, so you don't have to specify anything manually. If there are disruptions on one of your usual routes, such as traffic jams or construction, Maps notifies you in advance. The goal is to allow you to re-plan ahead of time—without having to check first.
New widget for route suggestions
Additionally, you'll receive route suggestions directly on your home screen. The new Maps widget shows you important information about your preferred route, such as estimated travel time and delays. You no longer have to open the app to get an overview. This saves time—especially in the morning when you're in a hurry.
Visited places: Automatic saving without effort
In addition to preferred routes, Apple is also introducing a second new feature: "Places You've Visited." With it, Apple Maps automatically saves places you visit in your daily life. These could be restaurants, cafes, shops, or other points of interest. You don't have to actively mark anything. The app recognizes where you've been and stores this information in a new section called "Visits" in your library. This way, you can always check where you've been recently—or recall names and addresses without having to search for them.
Data protection: Everything stays on your iPhone
As soon as apps analyze your behavior, the question of data protection arises. Apple relies on local processing here. The recognition of your preferred routes takes place entirely within the device. This means your routines remain on your iPhone and are not sent to Apple. The "Places Visited" feature is also protected by end-to-end encryption. Apple cannot view this data. If you wish, you can delete your entire history at any time – just a swipe is enough.
iOS 26 availability
iOS 26 is currently still in beta. The update is expected to be available to all users this fall. Those who are testing now can try out the new Apple Maps features.
Apple Maps thinks for you – and protects your data
Apple Maps in iOS 26 becomes significantly more personal. With the features for favorite routes and visited places, Apple wants to make your everyday life easier without requiring you to constantly take action yourself. At the same time, data protection remains a top priority. Everything runs locally on your device and can be easily deleted if necessary. Combined with the new Liquid Glass design, this makes Apple Maps not only more practical but also more modern. If you regularly use your iPhone for navigation, the update to iOS 26 is worthwhile just for these new features. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / DenPhotos)
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