Amazon and Microsoft-Led Consortium Unveils Data for an Open Alternative to Google Maps

The Overture Maps Foundation, an organization established by Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, and TomTom, has launched an initial open data collection that would assist developers in creating mapping applications and other geospatial tools. This “alpha” set comprises global data for over 59 million sites, 780 million distinct buildings, OpenStreetMap’s road data, and boundary information.

The map layers are delivered in a novel Overture map format, which was recently introduced and is intended to ensure standardization and compatibility across platforms. At this phase, the group’s primary purpose is to share data to garner public feedback, as opposed to supporting finished products.

The Foundation, established in December of the preceding year, comprises a diverse range of companies including geospatial and mapping corporations, alongside technology behemoths. Although the idea of open map data isn’t new, Overture contends that a collaborative endeavor is required to provide accurate and current information, a task that is no longer feasible for a single entity. The goal is to ensure newcomers are not burdened with offering outdated or incomplete directions.

However, Overture is quick to caution that there is still a substantial amount of work required before its resources are fully ready. Future releases will incorporate more open data, enhance interoperability, and introduce a robust ID system, which will assist map creators in maintaining consistency while adding content. Although applications may not heavily rely on the alpha dataset, it serves as an initial step, providing app developers a sense of the possibilities.

Google has traditionally been a market leader in mobile navigation apps, with Google Maps and Waze jointly claiming the majority of usage in recent years. Apple Maps, on the other hand, usually captures nearly all of the remaining market share. There’s minimal space for new entrants who typically need vast resources to be competitive. Overture’s open data could simplify the creation of competitive alternatives, despite the unlikely chance of dethroning Apple or Google in the near future.

All products endorsed by BuyTechBlog are handpicked by our editorial team, without influence from our parent company. Some of our articles contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive an affiliate commission. All prices are accurate at the time of publication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Overture Maps Foundation

More about Overture Maps Foundation

• Overture Maps Foundation’s official website
• Information on OpenStreetMap
• Insights on Google Maps’ market dominance
• Details on the collaborative efforts of Amazon, Meta, Microsoft, and TomTom