<!--
{
  "availability" : [
    "iOS: 3.0.0 - 27.0.0",
    "iPadOS: 3.0.0 - 27.0.0",
    "macCatalyst: 13.1.0 - 27.0.0",
    "macOS: 10.9.0 - 27.0.0",
    "tvOS: 9.2.0 - 27.0.0",
    "visionOS: 1.0.0 - 27.0.0"
  ],
  "documentType" : "symbol",
  "framework" : "MapKit",
  "identifier" : "/documentation/MapKit/MKMapView/mapType",
  "metadataVersion" : "0.1.0",
  "role" : "Instance Property",
  "symbol" : {
    "kind" : "Instance Property",
    "modules" : [
      "MapKit"
    ],
    "preciseIdentifier" : "c:objc(cs)MKMapView(py)mapType"
  },
  "title" : "mapType"
}
-->

# mapType

The type of data the map view displays.

```
var mapType: MKMapType { get set }
```

## Discussion

Changing the value in this property may cause the receiver to begin loading new map content. For example, changing from [`MKMapType.standard`](/documentation/MapKit/MKMapType/standard) to [`MKMapType.satellite`](/documentation/MapKit/MKMapType/satellite) might cause it to begin loading the satellite imagery for the map. If the map needs new data, however, it loads asynchronously and MapKit sends appropriate messages to the receiver’s delegate indicating the status of the operation.

## 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 &copy; 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)