I get a lot of apps sent to me to try, and whether they're on iOS, Android, Windows, or Linux, I try them all. Mainly because there's always the chance that an app will not only do what its developer intended, but also give you insight into how it could shape other aspects of your iPhone.
That's what happened with Compass GPS, released in late April by developer Rihab Mehboob. He got in touch in January about a messaging app he also created, which cleverly doubles as a note-taking app.
This time, Mehboob told me that he wanted to create something different from other compass apps, one that had a great user interface, but could also easily point a user in the right direction when walking somewhere.
I was using it in Lincoln last week, and not only is its purpose successful, but it also gives me inspiration on how Apple could improve its Maps app for iOS 16, which may be announced at WWDC 2022 in June.
Maps in iOS 16 should be inspired by this app
Even before Apple redesigned Maps in iOS 6, you could set a destination and then follow your route using a compass (*16*) in the app. Since the release of the Apple Watch in 2015, you can set your destination on your iPhone and then have your watch touch your wrist whenever you need to turn left or right.
All of this has been helpful, but while Apple has said it has a vested interest in augmented reality (AR), there's still no functionality in Maps to take advantage of the technology.
When you want to find your location on Maps, you double-tap the "location" button at the top right and the app will adjust and rotate to give you an idea of where you're facing. However, it can be difficult to find the right direction, and double-tapping a button feels counterintuitive.
Mehboob's app solves this problem in no time. Pick up your iPhone and switch to AR mode, with a compass overlaid on the screen. Lower the iPhone and it will show you the map. It's a simple feature, but it worked very well in practice while walking down Lincoln's main street.
Whether Mehboob moves on to the next idea as WWDC approaches, or there are bugs to fix in a future Compass GPS update, there's potential here for a full-fledged maps app if Apple isn't improving its own maps app. on iOS 16. .
Although it is free to download, Compass GPS has a $9.99 / £9.99 / AU$10.99 fee to continue using its features, raising hopes that the app may see more useful features in the coming months.
Either way, Mehboob's app shows what the potential could be for Apple's Maps app with augmented reality, especially if the AR goggles rumors come true.