Apple Maps on iOS 14.5 is getting new crowdsourced reporting features similar to those found in Waze and Google Maps. When the update launches publicly, users will be able to report accidents, hazards, and speed checks along their route when getting directions.
Apple advertises this feature with a splash screen that pops up the first time you request directions from Maps after upgrading to iOS 14.5. This is definitely a new capability because prior versions of the Maps app didn't have any accident reporting functionality.
When it comes to GPS navigation on smartphones, both Google Maps and Waze have popularized crowdsourced hazard reporting. With that in mind, it's awesome that Apple's mapping service is, at long last, getting similar reporting features of its own.
When Can I Use This Feature?
According to posters on Reddit who have spotted hazard reporting in Maps, it does require iOS 14.5 or iPadOS 14.5. Both updates are currently being tested by Apple's registered developers and public beta testers. As far as the general public goes, you will get a chance to try out the reporting interface in Maps when these updates launch publicly in the spring.
iOS 14.5 brings additional capabilities to the mix, including Apple's controversial App Tracking Transparency popup. Other new features include the ability to share your Apple Card with family members, support for the new PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X controllers, unlocking your iPhone with an Apple Watch while wearing a mask, along with a new security feature protecting against Messages text bombs, to name but a few.
How to Report Traffic Hazard on Apple Maps
To report hazards that you see along the way, swipe up on the Maps interface where map details are available to reveal a new "Report" button in the bottom tray. Now hit the "Accident," "Hazard," or "Speed Check" icon to report the correct traffic event, which is similar to apps like Waze. "Tapping automatically flags your location with no confirmation window, so it shouldn't be used except in a valid situation, notes MacRumors.
The new reporting interface is also available in the CarPlay edition of Maps and through the Siri digital assistant, MacRumors has discovered. For instance, "Hey Siri, there's a speed trap here," "Hey Siri, there's an accident," or some such will do the trick.
Traffic Reporting in Rival Mapping Apps
Rival mapping apps have been crowdsourcing accidents, speed traps, hazards, and much for several years now. In Google Maps, users have been able to report additional traffic events beyond accidents, hazards, and speed checks. For instance, Google Maps lets you also report crashes, lane closures, stalled vehicles, construction, and objects on the road.
And in Waze, you can report road closures, police, construction, and more. Crowdsourced reporting in Waze aggregates user reports on Google's servers and comes with a point system to incentivize people to submit traffic events along the road. Apple has not yet detailed how its system works nor has it revealed how its new feature protects privacy.