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Chuong H Nguyen
Following criticism over the inaccuracies of its Maps application when it initially launched, Apple is making strides in addressing complaints. In its latest move ahead of the launch of iOS 8 to consumers, the iPhone-maker has poached away Nokia HERE executive Torsten Krenz to help fix Apple Maps.
Krenz had a role as HERE director of regional map and content at the Nokia-owned mapping company that emerged after Nokia had acquired NAVTEQ.
According to sources to 9to5 Mac, Krenz was leading global field operations for ground truth mapping worldwide at Nokia. Though Apple has not commented on Krenz's role in its Maps division, the hire could indicate that Apple will be collecting more of its own data to improve the mapping experience. Apple had begun a hiring spree last summer for Ground Truth contributors worldwide to help provide regional improvements to Maps, and with the hire of Krenz it seems that Apple may resume such efforts.
The move comes just ahead of Apple's launch of iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite this fall where Maps will play an even more prominent role.
Most recently, Apple also hired Benoit Dupin from Amazon's A9 search technology group to boost its mapping efforts.
What do you think of Apple's latest hire? Is this instilling your confidence in using Maps more, or will you be using competing services and apps such as Google Maps, Garmin, Navigon, TomTom, and others?
Source: 9to5 Mac
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