The iOS 26 beta quietly brings AI-powered natural language search to Apple Maps, letting you “search the way you talk” for more accurate and useful results. Here’s what’s new.
iOS 26 Beta Adds Apple Intelligence-Powered Natural Language Search to Maps App
Instead of using clunky, keyword-based searches, you can now type naturally, just as you’d speak to a friend. For example:
“Show museums near Times Square with kid-friendly exhibits.”
Apple Maps instantly understands and delivers relevant results, parsing every detail in your request.
Search the Way You Talk
This Apple Maps AI search feature was spotted in iOS 26 beta code last month, but it wasn’t clear when, or if, it would arrive. Now, 9to5Mac points out that it’s live for beta testers, making it one of the most useful upgrades in iOS 26 so far.
The same Apple Intelligence natural language search capabilities have already been added to Photos, Music, TV, and the App Store. Bringing it to Apple Maps makes navigation smarter, faster, and far more intuitive.
Related: iOS 26 Leak Reveals Smart ‘Adaptive Temperature’ Feature for Apple Home App, Powered by Apple Maps
Why It’s a Big Deal
Natural language search eliminates the need to think like a search engine. Instead, you can type or dictate exactly what you’re looking for, from “Find vegan pizza places open after midnight” to “Show hiking trails within 10 miles.”
It’s a major step up from the old search feature, which often struggled with complex queries.
How to Try It
- Make sure you’re running the latest iOS 26 beta.
- Open Apple Maps.
- Type your request naturally, like you’re asking someone for a recommendation.
If you’re part of the beta program, you can start using AI-powered Apple Maps search today, and it might just change how you navigate forever.
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