MapQuest today announced that it has released the Android Maps API and the beta release of the Apple iOS Maps API. These full suite of features are supposed to be a better alternative to other native mobile mapping APIs, according to Vijay Bangaru, VP-Product at MapQuest. MapQuest has developed both the Android and Apple iOS Map APIs, which offer pretty serviceable features including:
Android Maps API :
- Advanced routing options and ability to display the route directly on the map
- Built-in geocoding and reverse geocoding
- Smooth animation when zooming/panning
- Ability to rotate the map
- Support of shape and image overlays
Apple iOS Maps API Beta:
- Advanced routing options and ability to display the route directly on the map
- Reverse geocoding
- Smooth animation when zooming/panning
- Support of shape and image overlays
The AOL-owned company’s plans to open source its mapping service and has added new functionality in the past, such as integrated driving directions and the ability to use free OpenStreetMap data or MapQuest licensed datasets. Bottom line, it’s always a good thing to open source something if you want vast improvements. And by releasing these APIs MapQuest is basically putting it in the hands of developers to make its service better.
[via BusinessWire]