Apple dumps Google Maps, includes Facebook in latest iOS

Washington, June 12 (ANI): Tech giant Apple has reportedly dumped Google Maps service from its popular iOS mobile operating system, and created its own maps application for the iPhone and iPad.

Apple made the announcement as it introduced the sixth version of the software at a conference for developers in California.

Now, Apple's new maps app, which will form part of a forthcoming free software update for iPhone and iPad owners, also includes detailed 3D models of major cities, The Telegraph reports.

The firm was also seen forging new ties with Facebook , as it announced a deal to integrate the social network into iPhones and iPads.

According to analysts, the decision to abandon Google Maps, which has provided mapping data for the iPhone since it was introduced in 2007, shows the increasingly fierce rivalry between the two firms. (ANI)