Apple iPhone 5 and iOS6 Apple Maps app
Apple iPhone 5 and iOS6 Apple Maps app Apple

Today at 10:00 AM Pacific / 1:00 PM Eastern time, Apple kicked off its latest iPhone 5 event, sending shockwaves across the tech sphere that are so strong that aftershocks have even reached the humble automotive blog.

Tech heads have already gone over all there is to know regarding the iPhone 5's performance and specs, but there's so much more than meets the eye regarding the latest Apple iOS6 update.

Launching on September 19, Apple has announced that its new operating system will now feature Apple's own Apple Maps app, a new system developed from the ground up that enhances the nav experience thanks in part to a new partnership with Yelp.

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Combined with the all new A6 CPU chip in the iPhone 5, Apple Maps uses vectors that make rotating, screen orienting, and zoom functions really smooth and crisp. What's more, the powerful Maps app features hundreds of millions of POI (points of interest) and counting to make destination inputs painless and less time consuming. Clicking on a location prompts the 'Info' card, which features the spot's contact information (phone, address, website). The handy 'Reviews' tab powered by Yelp allows the user to glance through restaurant ratings and reviews before making dinner decisions. Finally, the photos tab features images taken at the address to allow iPhone users to grow familiar with their future destination.

Of all the features found in Apple Maps, it's the Siri-based turn-by-turn navigation software that sets it apart from the rest of the GPS devices on the market. Turn-by-turn is capable of real-time traffic services as well, thanks to a crowd sourced data server that processes information received from other iPhone users in the area. Apple Maps will advise alternate routes to cut valuable minutes off of your commute.

Apple Maps capable Apple iOS6 launches on September 19. Apple iPhone 5 pre-orders will begin on September 14 while its official release is scheduled next Friday, September 21.