# init(annotation:reuseIdentifier:) Creates and returns a new annotation view. ``` init(annotation: (any MKAnnotation)?, reuseIdentifier: String?) ``` ## Parameters `annotation` The annotation object to associate with the new view. `reuseIdentifier` If you plan to reuse the annotation view for similar types of annotations, pass a string to identify it. Although you can pass `nil` if you don’t intend to reuse the view, reusing annotation views is generally best practice. ## Return Value The initialized annotation view, or `nil` if there’s a problem initializing the object. ## Discussion The reuse identifier provides a way for you to improve performance by recycling annotation views as the map scrolls on and off of the map. As MapKit no longer needs views, the map view moves them to a reuse queue. When a new annotation becomes visible, your app can request a view for that annotation by passing the appropriate reuse identifier string to the [`dequeueReusableAnnotationView(withIdentifier:)`](/documentation/MapKit/MKMapView/dequeueReusableAnnotationView(withIdentifier:)) method of [`MKMapView`](/documentation/MapKit/MKMapView). ## See Also [Location and Maps Programming Guide](https://developer.apple.com/library/archive/documentation/UserExperience/Conceptual/LocationAwarenessPG/Introduction/Introduction.html#//apple_ref/doc/uid/TP40009497) --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)