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The Easiest Way to Unlock Apple Maps' Hidden 3D View

Oct 25, 2019 05:54 PM

Map displaying Los Angeles International Airport on a smartphone.

By default, Apple's Maps features a 2D overhead viewing angle when you search for a place or get directions to a specific address. In the past, Apple Maps had a button in the top-right to view cities and landmarks in 3D, but that has now disappeared for the most part in iOS 13. However, the feature is still available to use — it's just sort of hidden this time around.

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If you're in Map or Transit view in Apple Maps, pinch to zoom in until you can see 2D outlines of the buildings. Now, place two fingers side by side on the screen, then drag up. Your 2D view will transform into a 3D view, showing you several dimensions of homes, buildings and other structures. To exit 3D view, simply swipe down with two fingers or tap on the "2D" button that now appears in the top-right.

Map view of a park with labeled streets and pathways.

You know how we mentioned that the 3D button has disappeared ... for the most part? Well, if you're in Satellite view (which you can access from the information "i" button in the top-right), the 3D button is still available to use instead of the two-finger swipe.

Cover photo and screenshots by Nelson Aguilar/Gadget Hacks

The next big software update for iPhone is coming sometime in April and will include a Food section in Apple News+, an easy-to-miss new Ambient Music app, Priority Notifications thanks to Apple Intelligence, and updates to apps like Mail, Photos, Podcasts, and Safari. See what else is coming to your iPhone with the iOS 18.4 update.