Apple Maps Using TripAdvisor Reviews in Some Searches
Apple Maps has relied solely on Yelp reviews for hotels in the past, but one Apple Insider user has found several instances of Apple relying on other sources for recent hotel searches.
Apple Maps, the default mapping service for iPhone and other iOS-enabled devices, could be partnering with TripAdvisor and Booking.com to provide additional hotel reviews.
An astute Apple Insider user noticed that Apple Maps is turning up TripAdvisor reviews for hotels located in New Jersey. Further tests showed that Booking.com reviews were showing up in search results in China and other parts of the world.
Since its launch in 2012, Apple Maps has lagged behind Google Maps in popularity, and in recent years has acquired start-ups that help crowdsource location data and clarify public transit schedules. Partnerships with TripAdvisor and Booking.com could be Apple’s attempt to supplement Yelp reviews in weak areas as a way to fill gaps in service.
Apple has yet to make a statement about changes to the service, and neither TripAdvisor nor Booking.com is listed as a source on Apple’s Maps Attribution Web page.
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