Apple has patented a new way in which it could utilize 3D Touch in the future to bring animated maps to life. The patent describes how its Maps service could one day display moving water, shorelines, foliage, and more.
Apple’s patent is titled “Non-static 3D map views,” and it describes a number of ways in which various elements of 3D mapping imagery could be animated. In some embodiments, Apple describes how it might animate bodies of water, reflections on buildings, and more.
Apple also describes how the animations could be presented differently based on various types of device input, such as touch, gestures, audio, and motion.
For instance, you may be looking at a map with water that appears still, but tapping the side of your device could cause it to ripple. Blowing into the microphone could cause rolling waves. A blow or motion could also cause wind to move trees and foliage.
Although Apple doesn’t mention 3D Touch specifically, it’s clear how the new technology could enable this without taking away the traditional single tap, which could continue to be used for other things.
This patent was originally filed in March 2013, and just like other patents, it should not be considered a guarantee of things to come. However, it does seem like this would be a great improvement to 3D Flyover, and it would be awesome with 3D Touch.
[via AppleInsider]
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