iOS 26: Apple Maps Gets Smarter with New Features Hidden in Beta Code

Apple’s iOS 26 is set to bring significant upgrades to Apple Maps, and recent discoveries within the beta code reveal two unannounced features poised to enhance the navigation experience: natural language search and thermal management.

Natural Language Search: Talking Your Way to Directions

Data mining of the latest iOS 26 beta, spearheaded by iOS developer Steve Moser, has uncovered evidence of a new natural language search function for Apple Maps. This feature, powered by Apple Intelligence, will allow users to input conversational queries – like “Best coffee shops with free Wi-Fi” – and receive relevant results.

This advancement aligns with Apple’s broader implementation of natural language processing across its apps, including Photos, Music, and TV, aiming to make interactions more intuitive and user-friendly. The upgraded search promises a more powerful and efficient way to find points of interest.

Thermal Management: Keeping Your iPhone Cool During Navigation

Alongside the search improvements, the beta code also indicates a new thermal management feature designed to prevent iPhone overheating during turn-by-turn navigation. Currently, Apple Maps keeps the display active throughout navigation to ensure visibility. However, this can contribute to overheating, particularly in sunny conditions or while charging.

The new feature will intelligently manage screen activity, allowing the display to dim or turn off temporarily to help the iPhone cool down. While seemingly minor, this adjustment could significantly improve the user experience in challenging environmental conditions.

Additional iOS 26 Maps Enhancements

These newly discovered features build upon the updates already announced at WWDC 2025, including automatic logging of visited places like restaurants and stores. iOS 26 will intelligently detect and log locations, allowing users to choose whether they want this data recorded for personalized insights. This feature prioritizes user privacy while offering a convenient way to track frequented locations.

Key Takeaways

• iOS 26 beta code reveals two unannounced Apple Maps features: natural language search and thermal management.
• Natural language search, powered by Apple Intelligence, enables conversational queries for finding locations.
• Thermal management will prevent iPhone overheating during navigation by intelligently managing screen activity.
• iOS 26 also includes previously announced features like automatic logging of visited places with privacy controls.
• While the search upgrade isn’t yet available, the thermal management feature appears to be already deployed in iOS 18 and iOS 26.