Apple working to improve crowdsourcing features of its Maps software

Apple is actively working to improve the community crowdsourcing features of its Maps software, as suggested by a job listing newly posted by the company.

As noted by 9to5Mac, the job listing in question is aimed at expanding Apple Maps’ crowdsourcing data, thereby making it more competitive with the likes of the Google-owned Waze.

Through the listing, Apple is looking for a “Maps Community Client Software Engineer”:

As an engineer working on Maps Community, your primary responsibility will be high-level UI development and architecture of the “Report a Problem” feature of the Maps application, and you will work closely with designers and engineers across the company to add new features and build the very best crowd-sourcing experience.

The sought-after engineer is also expected to extend the Maps app to integrate with Siri, Passbook, and other components of iOS to “enhance the feedback experience.” Knowledge in developing shared codebases between iOS and Mac, where Maps is also available, is also required of the potential hire.

This job posting is but the latest sign that Apple is intent on improving its Maps software, whose initial version was much maligned.

In July, it was reported that Apple had been contacting business owners to resolve issues concerning incorrect information as flagged by users of the mapping service through its “Report a Problem” feature. And in October, Apple launched a new website called Apple Maps Connect, enabling users to add or edit local business listings for Maps.

Last month, it was revealed that the company had partnered with more business listing information providers for Maps.