Apple opens map centre in Hyderabad

Tech giant Apple on Thursday opened its centre in Hyderabad to focus on development of  its “Maps” feature for its products, including the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple watch.

The LEED-certified facility, spread over one lakh sq ft on the fourth floor of Waverock Complex in Nanakramguda, is expected to accelerate development of Maps and create up to 4,000 jobs in a phased manner. The initial employment potential is expected to be around 150.

The facility was formally inaugurated by Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao in the presence of Apple CEO Tim Cook and state IT Minister K Taraka Rama Rao. “The talent here is incredible, and we are looking forward to expanding our relationships and introducing more universities and partners to our platforms as we scale up our operations,” Cook said.

He further said that he had become a fan of the vibrancy in



India and had made very good friends with its people. “India is unparalleled and the culture of Hyderabad and its history is lovely,” Cook said, wishing to establish a long-term relationship with Telangana.

Apple has been continually updating and adding features to Maps, including 3D views, the Flyover feature, and tools to help customers find convenient places to shop, eat and explore nearby areas. iOS 9 Apple has added Transit, which offers a combination of trains, subways, buses and walking, and is already available in more than 300 cities around the world.

“This will add thousands of jobs here and is a testament to our proactive approach, quality infrastructure and the excellent talent base we have in the region,” Chandrasekhar Rao said. Rama Rao said that Hyderabad, in the past two years, attracted top notch names and investments to the region.