Tapping the Directions button allows you to plot a start and end location, and choose Driving, Walking or Mass Transit directions. The last feature launches a third-party app of your choosing, or, if you don't have any on the phone, takes you to the App Store. This is a slight step back from the earlier versions, which relied on Google's data for everything, obviating the need for third-party apps. (I'm fairly certain the developers of those apps aren't complaining.) In the end, leaving Apple's new Maps app may be a tad inconvenient, but if the results are useful -- and they are -- few will complain.

There is something to complain about, however, and that's the loss of Street View. In its place, Apple now offers FlyOver -- 3D views of several large cities including San Francisco, London, and Sydney. While it's a visually cool addition, FlyOver isn't really a substitute for Street View and it certainly doesn't deliver anywhere near the coverage. FlyOver will be most useful to those who live in supported cities; for everyone else, it's more like a cool demo. At least the list of cities covered will grow in time.

A definite enhancement to Maps is the new voice-guided navigation. (Finally.)

In Maps, Siri (assuming you have an iPhone that supports Siri) guides you with turn-by-turn directions, using an uncluttered user interface that displays driving instructions within graphics shaped like traffic signs. Tapping on the screen brings up more options and data, such as an Overview button, an ETA, and details on how much time and distance remains on your trip.

Even if you switch to another app, direction notifications slide from the top of the screen as Siri continues her narration. You can even ask, "Are we there yet?" and Siri will give you the time remaining and occasionally some sage advice like, "Relax and enjoy the ride."