Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, and TomTom, a Dutch location technology development company, have joined hands to contest the supremacy of Google Maps and Apple Maps. Together, they have initiated a new open-source mapping project named the Overture Maps Foundation.
Their main goal is to provide developers with the necessary tools and data to create independent mapping and navigation products, free from the control of these technology giants.
Founded last year, the Overture Maps Foundation has recently released its inaugural open dataset, comprising extensive information, including over 59 million points of interest, building details, transportation networks, and administrative boundaries.
This data empowers developers to build their own global mapping and navigation services, enabling them to directly compete with Google and Apple maps.
The release of this comprehensive dataset marks a significant shift in the landscape, fostering collaboration and maintaining an up-to-date, integrated database on a global scale.
This endeavor is anticipated to be the first major challenge to Google and Apple maps’ long-standing dominance, providing a substantial, more accessible, and cost-effective alternative.
Presently, developers must pay to access the Google Maps API, and Apple also levies fees on those who don’t develop native applications.
The impact of this initiative in practice remains to be seen. To find out more, click here.
