Apple is reported to be in talks with Foursquare as the Cupertino-based giant attempts to improve its troubled iOS maps service.

The Wall Street Journal notes that Apple is keen to integrate local data from Foursquare into its mapping application and the discussions come “as Apple has been talking to a number of companies that collect local data to improve its new mapping product.”

Apple is frantically trying to take on Google in local search, and a deal with Foursquare could help Apple’s mapping service stand out. Foursquare helps people find local places and tell friends when they are at venues. The four-year old company has also collected business listings and data about the popularity of places.

Released in September, Apple’s maps service was a high-profile flop that is believed to have led to the departure of iOS chief Scott Forstall and mapping boss Richard Williamson.