# Apple Maps Enhances User Experience with New Yelp Integration
Apple Maps has significantly improved since its challenging debut in 2012. Throughout the years, it has transformed into a powerful navigation tool, incorporating various features aimed at enhancing user experience. Nevertheless, one aspect that has often yielded mixed results is its collaboration with third-party services, especially Yelp. Recently, Yelp revealed exciting updates that are set to improve this integration, making it more convenient for Apple Maps users to connect with nearby service providers.
## New Feature: Request a Quote
In its year-end product announcement, Yelp unveiled a new feature specifically tailored for Apple Maps users: the **Request a Quote** capability. This functionality enables users to effortlessly engage with service professionals across over 200 categories, encompassing home services, local businesses, automotive services, and event planning.
### How It Works
Users can conveniently request quotes by clicking the “Quote” button available on business pages within Apple Maps. This action guides them to the Request a Quote process in the Yelp app. For individuals who do not have the Yelp app installed, the feature redirects them to a mobile web experience, ensuring that everyone can access this new capability. This integration is anticipated to produce high-intent leads for businesses, as it connects users directly with professionals at the moment they seek services.
Interestingly, this new feature emerges at a time when Apple has been slowly diminishing its dependency on Yelp for place listings, choosing instead its own review system. This development raises questions about Yelp’s future role within Apple Maps, but the launch of the Request a Quote feature suggests a continued alliance between the two platforms.
## Additional Improvements from Yelp
In addition to the Request a Quote feature, Yelp has unveiled several other enhancements that, although not solely linked to Apple Maps, are likely to enrich the overall user experience.
### AI-Powered Review Insights
Yelp is harnessing cutting-edge AI technology to deliver deeper insights into user reviews. By employing large language models (LLMs), Yelp can evaluate reviewer sentiment concerning various business aspects, such as food quality, service, ambiance, wait times, and drink selections. This feature aspires to aid users in making more informed decisions rooted in collective feedback.
### Enhanced Business Attributes
To foster greater transparency, Yelp is introducing eight new business attributes that clarify tipping policies, payment methods, and other pertinent information. This modification will assist users in better preparing for their visits, ensuring they know what to anticipate upon arriving at a restaurant or service provider.
### Expanded Reviewer Recognitions
Yelp is also implementing a system to highlight reviewers with expertise in specific business categories. This feature will display a reviewer’s Recognitions alongside their reviews, simplifying the process for users to identify credible opinions and navigate through diverse perspectives.
## Looking Ahead
These updates are part of Yelp’s overarching strategy to boost user engagement and offer a more seamless experience, especially for those using Apple Maps. As users transition from Maps to the Yelp app, these improvements should enable a smoother journey, allowing them to locate and connect with local services more effectively.
In conclusion, the incorporation of the Request a Quote feature and other enhancements signifies a considerable advancement for both Apple Maps and Yelp. As these platforms continue to evolve, users can anticipate a more integrated experience that simplifies the task of finding and hiring local professionals.
What changes are you most enthusiastic about? Share your thoughts in the comments below!