why are some places shaded out in apple maps?

In Apple Maps in HK, some places are shaded out even though they are quite easily otherwise visible on Google Maps. It seems a little meaningless and unhelpful to users of the Maps app to shade out these places. Why is Apple doing this?


iPad Air, iPadOS 18

Posted on Jul 27, 2025 02:14 AM

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1 reply

Jul 27, 2025 04:00 PM in response to ptrhcpang

The shaded (cross-hatched) areas are considered sensitive areas to the local government. Apple seems to be a bit more drastic when it comes to it, compared to Google.


I’ve seen the same discrepancies between Apple and Google in other regions of the world. I can’t explain why but my guess is that Apple is more careful in the sense of not willing to take a potential risk.

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why are some places shaded out in apple maps?

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