Apple has just revealed a new series of extras for its Maps app to coincide with the upcoming Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. What’s called a Detailed City Experience is designed to offer an in-depth way to enjoy Monaco and the race.
The new update goes live today, Wednesday, May 14, and is available for the iPhone, iPad and Mac. Apple describes it as a highly detailed, custom experience to let users experience Monaco whether they’re in Monaco or anywhere else.
It’s proof that apps like Apple Maps are there for more than just route planning.
The new Detailed City Experience is also cunningly timed to fit with the release of the F1 movie made by Apple TV+, which will be released in theaters in June.
I’ve seen what’s just arrived and it’s impressive. Check out the Port de Fontvielle and you can see yachts bobbing in the water, with details even down to a big yacht with its own tender on board. There are also buildings like the Fairmont Monte Carlo and the Hôtel de Paris, both of which look splendid. And like other parts of the map, they have great night versions as well, with the windows invitingly lit. There’s even a handsome 3D rendition of the Monte Carlo casino, another significant landmark.
There are also hidden Easter eggs promised for those wanting to take a look around, including race cars to be found around the map in less obvious places.
The race circuit is highlighted so you can see exactly where it goes, and how that affects road closures and parking spaces. Each of the race’s 19 turns are also highlighted.
Some buildings that are temporarily in place for the race will vanish again from the maps afterwards, but permanent buildings will remain. Apple has worked with F1 to mark all event access points. Something similar happened for the Las Vegas F1 racing, with permanent buildings still to be found in the maps now.
The Detailed City Experience is to be found in Apple Maps for 31 cities including London, Paris, Barcelona and Los Angeles.
Are you going to the F1 Grand Prix in Monaco? Me neither. But the joy of the map update is that you can see the Detailed City Experience in the app wherever you are.
To see the new mapping, you don’t need to do anything: the update is made on Apple’s servers. Enjoy the Grand Prix.
