Apple launches 'Surveyor' app to crowdsource navigation data to improve Maps

Users will be asked to record images, videos in landscape mode via iPhone and if possible, to get 360-degree footage of the particular stretch of the road.

For the last several years, Apple has been using partner vehicles and ground surveyors with special camera kits to map the roads in popular global cities to improve the accuracy of the Maps app.

Now, the company has reportedly launched a new app dubbed 'Surveyor' for iPhone users who can assist in feeding route information in Apple Maps.

However, for now, the Surveyor app is available in select regions in the US. Once the user opens the app, it will direct them to a built-in app called Premise, Apple's official partner, reported MacRumors.

Once the user signs up with Premise, they will be given tasks. They will be asked to put their iPhone on a stable mount (on their vehicle) and record images, videos in landscape mode and if possible, to get 360-degree footage of the particular stretch of the road.

They have to take snaps of signs, traffic lights, location, and record data about their physical features. All the minute details will be fed to Apple Maps to deliver the best navigation experience with less hassles for the end users.

Apple Maps.

Besides helping Apple, Premise also has several simple tasks for users to participate in a survey, take pictures of nearby grocery shops, or popular landmark spots and more. In return, the user gets paid to complete the assigned tasks.

In a related development, Apple is conducting ground survey in India too.

As part of the Maps rebuild programme, Apple executives with specialised camera-and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors-equipped backpacks have deployed in Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa, Mumbai and other cities.

With the portable camera-mounted backpack, they collect imagery and LiDAR data for accurate geo-tagging of roads in areas where it is difficult for vehicles to drive.

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