On iPhone and likely iPad satellite view in Map app no longer switches between the true satellite view (2D) and the flyover 3D “faux” satellite view when tapping the 2D/3D icon (for cities that have a 3D flyover view). It just changes viewing angle of the 3D faux/flyover satellite view.

For up to maybe iOS 16 in satellite view looking at cities with 3D flyover satellite view available tapping the 2D icon switched to the true satellite view and tapping 3D (same icon just switched label) switched to the 3D flyover view (where trees can look like bad Minecraft trees when too close). Helpful in viewing the most current view as well as when flyover 3D satellite view warps things and looks too fake.

Now using iOS 17 and 18 for myself and several other iPhones I have checked tapping the 2D/3D icon just switches the angle of view on the 3D flyover satellite view from overhead for when tapping the 2D/3D icon/button regardless of how out of date the flyover 3D satellite view is.

The problem varies as for some cities there is not a lot of time difference between the two views and also little development requiring updates, but then there are cities like Baton Rouge where the satellite view (stuck in flyover 3D satellite view) is back before the Terrance exit off I110 had even begun construction. The true satellite view available for BR shows the exit as tapping 2D works correctly showing the tru satellite view on the MacOS version of Maps, older iOS devices like the one I have stuck on iOS 15, and the true satellite view can also be seen in the reporting something missing reporting mechanism within the iOS Maps app after selecting satellite view (no labels, no traffic, no searching, & smaller pop up window as it’s just to drop a pin and report where that something is missing).

Also, Pecue Lane at I10 doesn’t show any actual construction. You can still see the remnants of the Pontiac Silver dome with collapse roof when you zoom in on Pontiac, Michigan (and that’s all you can see on 2D or 3D satellite view after zooming in on the city). Pontiac is probably the most out of date I have seen.

Does anyone else here using iOS 18 and likely 17 have this problem when viewing cities where the flyover 3D satellite view is available?

I have reported multiple times using different methods over past 2 to 3 years including screenshots and movies showing the silver dome and other views stuck in very old images using satellite view when more current available, but either it is just on my family and friends devices along with the ones at a Best Buy I checked when buying something else or no one besides me uses the satellite view on Apple Maps or notices how some cities are years behind what’s available to view on older iOS devices or on macOS devices.

This post was edited on 5/10/25 at 2:32 pm