In June Apple announced it would stop using Google Maps in favour of its own system, created using data from navigation specialist TomTom.

Apple is yet to comment on the complaints about the software, which comes already installed on the new iPhone.

TomTom said it provided only data and was not responsible for how it worked.

The software is packaged with iOS6, the latest version of Apple's operating system, which runs on the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch.

Previously, the system had an app running mapping software from Google.

But users are now forced to use Apple's new maps once they upgrade or buy the latest iPhone - which goes on sale on Friday.

There is not currently a Google Maps app available in Apple's App Store, although Google's system is still accessible via the phone's web browser.
Museum in river

Among the user complaints regarding Apple's maps sent to the BBC were:
Screenshots of satellite coverage in Dingwall Users have complained about the quality of satellite images in the new software (bottom)

    Some towns appear to be missing, such as Stratford-upon-Avon and Solihull.
    Others, like Uckfield in East Sussex, are in the wrong location.
    Satellite images of various locations, particularly in Scotland, are obscured by cloud.
    A search for Manchester United Football Club directs users to Sale United Football Club, a community team for ages five and above.
    Users also reported missing local places, such as schools, or strange locations. Another screenshot showed a furniture museum that was apparently located in a river.

The Twitter account which posted the screenshot, @fake_iOS6maps, has since been suspended.

TomTom, which also licenses data to a range of other mobile manufacturers, defended its involvement.

A spokesman told the BBC that its maps provided only a "foundation" to the service.

"The user experience is determined by adding additional features to the map application such as visual imagery," a spokesman said.