> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.nativeline.ai/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Maps & Location > Add maps, directions, and location features # Maps & Location Add interactive maps, directions, place search, and location tracking using Apple's built-in frameworks. ## What You Can Build * **Map Display** — Show maps with markers * **User Location** — Track where users are * **Directions** — Route calculation and navigation * **Place Search** — Find locations by name * **Geocoding** — Convert addresses to coordinates *** ## Built-In vs External ### Apple MapKit (Built-In) **Pros:** * No API key needed * Free (included in iOS) * Privacy-focused * Native performance **Cons:** * iOS only * Limited customization * No Street View ### Google Maps (External) **Pros:** * More detailed in some areas * Street View * Cross-platform **Cons:** * Requires API key * Has usage costs * More setup **Recommendation:** Start with Apple MapKit. It covers most needs and is easier to set up. *** ## Displaying a Map ### Basic Map ``` Add a map that shows the user's current location with a blue dot indicator. ``` ### Map with Markers ``` Show a map with markers for each location in my list. Each marker should show the location name when tapped. ``` ### Customizing the Map ``` Configure the map to: - Show standard view (not satellite) - Enable user location - Allow zooming and panning - Start centered on San Francisco ``` *** ## User Location ### Requesting Permission ``` Request location permission when the map loads. Show an explanation of why we need location. ``` Permission is required to access location: * **When In Use** — Only while app is open * **Always** — Even in background (rarely needed) ### Getting Current Location ``` Get the user's current location and show it on the map. Add a button to re-center on their location. ``` ### Tracking Location ``` Track the user's location as they move. Update the map to follow them. Show their path as a line. ``` *** ## Place Search ### Search by Name ``` Add a search bar that finds places: - User types a query (e.g., "coffee shops") - Show results in a list below - Tap result to show on map ``` ### Search Nearby ``` Search for restaurants within 1 mile of the user. Show results as markers on the map. ``` *** ## Directions ### Getting Directions ``` Add directions from user's location to a selected place: - Calculate the route - Show the path on the map - Display distance and estimated time ``` ### Multiple Routes ``` Show multiple route options: - Fastest route - Alternative routes - User can tap to select ``` ### Turn-by-Turn Instructions ``` Show turn-by-turn directions as a list: - Each step with instruction - Distance for each segment - Scroll to highlight current step ``` *** ## Geocoding ### Address to Coordinates ``` Convert an address to map coordinates: - User enters address - Convert to latitude/longitude - Show marker on map ``` ### Coordinates to Address ``` Convert tapped location to address: - User taps on map - Get the street address - Display in a popup ``` *** ## Map Annotations ### Custom Markers ``` Use custom icons for map markers: - Restaurants: fork and knife icon - Shops: shopping bag icon - User location: blue dot ``` ### Marker Details ``` When user taps a marker: - Show detail card with name and address - "Get Directions" button - "Call" button if phone number available ``` ### Clustering ``` When there are many markers close together, group them into clusters showing the count. Tap to zoom into the cluster. ``` *** ## Common Use Cases ### Store Locator ``` Create a store locator: - Show all store locations on map - List view below the map - Search by city or zip - Filter by features (24hr, drive-thru) - Tap for directions ``` ### Delivery Tracking ``` Build delivery tracking: - Show driver location (live) - Show destination - Draw route between them - Update ETA as driver moves ``` ### Location Check-In ``` Add location check-in: - Detect when user is near a place - Prompt to "check in" - Record the check-in with timestamp ``` *** ## Location Settings ### Accuracy Levels | Level | Use Case | Battery | | ---------------- | ---------------- | ------- | | Best | Precise tracking | High | | Kilometer | City-level | Medium | | Three Kilometers | Region | Low | ``` Use kilometer accuracy to save battery while still showing relevant nearby places. ``` ### Background Location Background location drains battery and requires special justification for App Store approval. Only use if truly necessary. *** ## Privacy Considerations ### Permission Best Practices * Only request location when needed * Use "When In Use" unless you need background * Explain why you need location * Work gracefully without location ### Handling Denied Permission ``` If location is denied: - Show a friendly message - Let users enter location manually - Show button to open Settings ``` *** ## Troubleshooting * Check internet connection * Verify map region is set * Check if map view is sized correctly * Is permission granted? * Simulator: Set location in Features menu * Real device: Check Privacy settings * Check the query isn't empty * Try broader search terms * Verify network connection * Start and end points valid? * Route possible by selected mode? * Network connection available? *** ## Testing Location ### In Simulator Set simulated locations: * Features → Location → Custom Location * Or choose preset (City Run, Freeway Drive) ### On Device Real device uses actual GPS. Walk around to test tracking. *** ## Next Steps Add weather to location features Store location data in the cloud