Changing Distance Units in Apple Maps: A Comprehensive Guide
Apple Maps stands as a leading navigation app, competing closely with Google Maps and others in the digital navigation landscape. It boasts an array of practical features that enhance the driving experience, including live ETA sharing, parking location retrieval, and options to avoid tolls and highways. For users of Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs, Apple Maps can be an indispensable tool.
The Challenge of Measurement Systems When Traveling
Traveling to a country that uses the imperial measurement system can be daunting, especially if you’re accustomed to the metric system. While searching online can help, it can often become frustrating to convert distances while on the go.
If you’ve found yourself grappling with this situation, you might be wondering how to switch from kilometers (km) to miles (mi) on Apple Maps. Fortunately, adjusting the distance units in Apple Maps is straightforward on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Understanding Measurement Systems in iOS 16 and Later
With the introduction of iOS 16, Apple consolidated measurement unit settings into the system preferences. Instead of simply toggling between kilometers and miles, you now have three options: “US,””UK,”or “Metric.”This change can be confusing if you’re not familiar with what these categories represent.
- US and UK: These options utilize the customary measurements, which include inches, feet, yards, and miles for distance.
- Metric: This setting uses the International System of Units (SI), incorporating kilometers, centimeters, and meters.
To convert km to miles, select either “US” or “UK” as your measurement system. In the following sections, we will guide you step-by-step on how to make these adjustments on various Apple devices.
Important: The method to adjust distance units in Apple Maps varies depending on the iOS version.
How to Change Kilometers to Miles in Apple Maps on iPhone
For users with iPhones operating on iOS 16, 17, or 18, follow these simple steps to modify your Apple Maps settings:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap General.
- Select Language & Region.
- Choose Measurement System.
- Select either “US” or “UK” to view distances in miles.
Once you’ve made this change, Apple Maps will display distances in miles, simplifying your navigation experience.
Note: You can use the same process to adjust settings on your iPad.
Switching from Kilometers to Miles on iOS 15
If your iPhone is still running on iOS 15, use the following steps to change the distance unit settings:
- Access the Settings menu on your iPhone.
- Scroll to find and tap Maps.
- Locate the DISTANCES section and tap “Miles” .
Note: This adjustment will not impact other measurement settings on your device.
Adjusting Apple Maps Settings on Mac
You can also switch distance units in Apple Maps on your Mac. Here’s how:
- Open the System Preferences on your Mac.
- Click on General.
- Select Language & Region.
- Choose the US or UK option under Measurement System.
For Older Macs: Changing Distance Units
If you’re using an older MacBook, follow these steps:
- Launch Apple Maps.
- Click Maps in the menu bar.
- Select Preferences.
- In the General settings, adjust the Distance Units from the dropdown.
- Select Miles.
Using Apple Maps on the Web
Apple has recently enabled access to Apple Maps via a web interface as of July 2024, where distances are displayed in miles by default. This eliminates the need for any adjustments on your end.
Conclusion
Modifying distance units in Apple Maps from kilometers to miles enhances usability, especially when navigating new locales. Always remember to adjust your device’s settings according to the measurement system of the country you are visiting. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with fellow travelers or anyone who might benefit from a smoother navigation experience.
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Image source: Unsplash/@samuelfoster_co_uk
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