An example map update method is performed by an in-vehicle terminal. The map update method includes: obtaining a current data record, where the current data record includes current image data and current positioning data; comparing the current data record with navigation map data, where the navigation map data includes map image data and map positioning track data; and updating the navigation map data according to a comparison result. The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention help improve intelligence and accuracy of a map update and shorten an update period.