Internet search titan Google Inc. has this week penned a long-term licensing partnership with Holland’s leading digital mapping and GPS specialist Tele Atlas, which will see Google granted access to in-depth map data and dynamic content spanning more than 200 different countries.
Google partners with Tele Atlas for enhanced mapping services. Image: Tele Atlas.
The five-year agreement covers all of Google’s current and future map-based services and navigation-based offerings across mobile, online and desktop environments. These will include the likes of online applications Google Maps and Google Earth and also mobile applications such as Google Maps for Mobile.Tele Atlas NV, which is based in s-Hertogenbosch, will be able to apply accuracy and feature edits to its mapping database thanks to the deal also outlining that Google will afford the company with access to valuable update information provided via its massive user community.
Google has implemented a number of features that enable its users to make edit-based improvements to maps, including the ability to add elements such as landmarks, points of interest and business locations, and also apply fine-tuning to placement details -- all of which would prove helpful to Tele Atlas with regard to ongoing GPS precision.
“Google’s innovation and leadership is undisputed, and we are proud to have the opportunity to be the map foundation for one of the world’s most progressive web companies,” enthused Bill Henry, CEO of Tele Atlas. “This agreement is important too because it gives us access to input from a significant online community of map users, whose feedback can help us keep our maps fresh and accurate.”
The announcement of Google’s deal with Tele Atlas comes only a week after the California-based search leader launched its new Google Map Maker application, which it describes as “a significant step” in equipping Google Maps users with convenient tools they can use to build high-quality maps of their neighbourhoods, cities and countries.
“Map Maker allows you and your peers to add, edit and moderate most features you see on maps including roads, lakes, parks, points of interest, businesses, cities and localities,” outlined Google. “You will be able to trace many of these features using satellite images; as you trace, maps are immediately updated.” Financial details relating to the licensing agreement between Google and Tele Atlas have not been disclosed by either party.
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