Apple taps TomTom for new iOS Maps app data

Leaked screenshots of Apple's new Maps app running on TomTom data.

(Credit: Engadget)

Apple unveiled its new Maps app for iOS today at the World Wide Developers Conference, but it didn't reveal its new source of data since booting Google as its default maps app.

Now we have word that TomTom is one of the main providers of data for the new app. An anonymous tipster sent Engadget "leaked" screenshots that show the app on an iPhone 4S running the iOS 6 developer beta, as well as a shot of a TomTom copyright notice.

A TomTom representative told Engadget that the company "has signed a global agreement with Apple for maps and related information." Some hours later, TomTom confirmed that news in a supremely terse statement.

CNET has contacted Apple for more information and will update this report when we learn more.

TomTom's experience making navigation devices and software is likely key to the app's heavy dose of GPS, which offers turn-by-turn directions and includes a new traffic service that shows you the location of accidents, courtesy of crowd-sourcing. The new 3D Maps app, which was built entirely in house, also sports a Flyover feature that displays 3D photographic maps that can be rotated using your fingers to get a true view of any location.

Update June 12 at 5:36 a.m. PT: Added official TomTom confirmation.