TomTom Maps widens scope to integrate open ‘super source’ data
Geolocation technology specialist TomTom (TOM2) has told software application developers focused on mapping applications and related services that it will now introduce ‘significantly improved’ maps, built on a new TomTom Maps Platform.
Significantly better, how?
The company says that the new maps offer broader geographical coverage, an extended set of supported data types and faster update cycles – and, of the three elements here, arguably, surely the wider supported data aspect should prove to be the most significant for software engineers.
The Maps Platform underpins TomTom’s target to generate location technology revenue of €600 million in 2025.
“The market for location technology is growing fast. It is the foundational substrate layer that enables people and things to move more safely, with less friction and greater efficiency. The benefits that customers can derive from location technology creates an insatiable demand for accurate data,” said Harold Goddijn, CEO at TomTom.
Goddijn points to the fact that users, applications, sensors and the open source community are producing a vast number of signals – but, in highlighting this reality, he insists that his firms new platform is designed to ‘bring these worlds together’ in a consistent way to power the most demanding applications.
Open source super source
The new TomTom Maps Platform combines TomTom’s own data with new ‘super’ sources such as sensor-derived observations and open source data.
The company is also opening its technology to others to map their own data against a consistent base map, enabling easy integration said Goddijn added.
“It supports our strategy to accelerate innovation and foster an ecosystem where the world comes together to create the smartest map of the planet,” he said.
Eric Bowman, CTO of TomTom is now talking about how his firm is taking key steps to become the first truly open and collaborative mapping ecosystem that empowers developers, consumers, local authorities and businesses to build safe and sustainable digital maps in real-time.
