Routing Mode

A routing mode is the category of transportation directions that your app offers to users through Apple Maps. When you register your app as a directions provider, you declare which modes it supports so Apple Maps can present it for the correct type of trip. The available modes are transit, automobile, pedestrian, cycling, and ride-share.

Declaring Routing Modes

Set your app’s supported routing modes in the Info.plist file under the MKDirectionsApplicationSupportedModes key. Each mode maps to a specific string value: MKDirectionsModeBus, MKDirectionsModeCar, MKDirectionsModeWalk, MKDirectionsModeBike, and MKDirectionsModeRideShare, among others. Transit apps can declare multiple sub-modes such as bus, subway, train, and ferry. Your app only appears in the Apple Maps directions picker when a user requests a mode that matches one of your declared values.

Matching Modes to User Requests

When Apple Maps sends an MKDirectionsRequest to your app, the request includes the transport type the user selected. Your app should check this value and return directions appropriate for that mode. If your app supports multiple modes, it must handle each type correctly. A cycling app that accidentally returns driving directions will frustrate users and may trigger negative reviews. Accurate mode declarations and proper request handling ensure your app delivers the right experience every time Apple Maps launches it.