We have always come to know Apple as the leading company in technology. How did it acquire that reputation over the years? Well, it is not because they simply manufacture electronics, but because they innovate, create and think of every little detail. They are not afraid to go wild or take any risks.

Today we learnt about Apple taking steps to revolutionize its Maps application through introducing 3D images technology. With that purpose, Apple has purchased  the mind-blowing C3 Technologies company.

In case you’re not aware what C3 Technologies creates a high-quality and detailed 3D maps with no human input. The 3D mapping is camera-based and this technology basically uses a declassified government missile guidance method to pick up buildings details and small objects like trees.

This is the company’s official description:

C3 Technologies is the leading provider of 3D mapping solutions, offering photo-realistic models of the world for search, navigation and geographic information systems. Since 2007 when it was spun out of the aerospace and defense company Saab AB, venture-backed C3 has redefined mapping by applying previously classified image processing technology to the development of 3D maps as a platform for new social and commercial applications. The Sweden-based company’s automated software and advanced algorithms enable C3 to rapidly assemble extremely precise 3D models, and seamlessly integrate them with traditional 2D maps, satellite images, street level photography and user generated images, that together are forever changing how people use maps and explore the world.

With the purchase of 3C Technologies, Apple owns now three companies working on innovating the maps experience. Apple purchased three years ago Placebase in 2009 and last year purchased Poly9 which is also a 3D mapping company.

With that idea, Apple will bring a completely new dish to the table, one that all will be starving for. However, we don’t have anything tangible at the moment, but we keep getting glimpses into the future of Apple.