Why did Apple Maps remove city tours?

The exact reason for Apple Maps removing its automated city tours has not been officially stated, but the lack of announcement suggests it may not have been a popular feature.

What was the Apple Maps Flyover feature?

Apple Maps' Flyover feature used 3D imagery to create aerial tours of cities, showcasing landmarks in an animated, programmed visit.

When was the Apple Maps city tours feature first launched?

The automated city tours feature within Apple Maps' Flyover mode was first launched in 2014 with the release of iOS 8 and macOS X Yosemite.

Home / Technology / Apple Maps Ditches City Tours: What's Gone?

Apple Maps Ditches City Tours: What's Gone?

19 Dec

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Summary

Apple Maps removed automated city tours from its 3D Flyover mode.
The feature, launched in 2014, showcased landmarks in aerial tours.
The exact reason for the removal remains unclear but was not publicized.

Apple Maps Ditches City Tours: What's Gone?

Apple Maps has discontinued its automated city tours, a feature that was previously integrated into its 3D Flyover mode. This surprising change, implemented with the recent iOS 26 and macOS 26 Tahoe updates, means users can no longer experience pre-programmed aerial journeys through major urban centers. The city tours first debuted in 2014 with iOS 8 and macOS X Yosemite, evolving over the years to cover an expansive number of cities, with Flyover technology reportedly used in 350 cities as of 2019.

The feature offered engaging virtual visits to landmarks, such as the London tour that included Buckingham Palace and the London Eye. While Apple has continued to expand its Flyover capabilities, with new cities like Plzeň being added in November, the removal of the automated tours was noted by users and has not been accompanied by any official explanation from Apple. The lack of fanfare surrounding this change suggests it may have been a less popular component of the Maps service.