It was somewhat inevitable that Apple would take a lot of heat when it launched its own Map application over the existing one provided by Google – although, in fairness, there is a lot to like about the application.

Turn-by-turn navigation is a plus point and the spoken instructions, although limited to only more recent iOS devices, are a real help when on the road. If only Apple had put more time into the routing side of things the heat might have cooled to a simmer.

However, expectations would always be high from Apple, as they are known as being a technology design innovator, so if you are going to launch a new application to replace an existing, familiar, and trusted one, then it needs to be not just OK – it needs to be truly outstanding.

In a recent review CNET reported, “Only a day after iOS 6′s release, reports came flooding in about Apple’s Maps app having significant problems with missing cities along with distorted buildings and landmarks.” (source: CNET: So-so Maps mar otherwise stellar upgrade) whilst CNN were much less restrained, “this replacement for Google Maps is embarrassingly inept.” and describing the application as “dangerous” due to routing problems (source: CNN: IPhone 5 journal: So about that Maps app …).

From the negative news reports one may be left thinking the entire application if flawed but on balance things are not quite as bad, as NBC News puts it, “That Maps thing that everyone and their mom seems to be yowling about? The criticism is out of proportion to the actual flaws.” (source: NBC News: The Apple Maps furor is overblown).

According to reports in Bloomberg, following the misstep with Apple Maps, it looks as if things are moving at Apple with at least one person exiting the business and the company “seeking advice” from experts in map technology (source: ) whilst the BBC puts the exit count at two (source: BBC News: Apple’s Scott Forstall and John Browett to leave firm).