Apple acquired several companies to construct its mapping technology, as well as using information from third parties, such as navigation system maker Tom Tom NV, before it was ready to boot Google Maps.

WSJ: Google Pounces on Apple Map Apology

The firm also updated its mapping technology to feature "City Lens" - an augmented reality app that overlays information about nearby restaurants and other points of interest over live footage of the surrounding area captured by the device's camera.

BBC: Nokia unveils two Windows Phone 8 handsets

In Zambia, women-led technology organisation Asikana Network is currently mapping all similar organisations across Africa with a view to sharing information.

BBC: Will the next Zuckerberg be female?